Michael Mills, Ed.D. - Teachers Make a Difference - Ms. Bordelon

The speaker reflects on their limited positive experiences with teachers during childhood, highlighting the significant impact of Miss Borderline, a 6th-grade teacher during the first year of segregation in central Louisiana. Miss Borderline's calm handling of transitions and her encouragement of independent learning left a lasting impression. She allowed the speaker to work at their own pace, fostering a love for reading and learning. This experience influenced the speaker's approach to teaching, emphasizing the importance of valuing what students value.

What impact did Miss Borderline's teaching have on the speaker's decision to become a teacher?

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of valuing what students value?