Jose A. Lovo - Teachers Make a Difference - Ms. Lucy, Mr. Chapa and Cynthia McDermott

The speaker reflects on their educational journey, starting in El Salvador with Miss Lucy, who set high expectations. Moving to the U.S., Mr. Chappas helped overcome language barriers and fostered a love for geography. High school teachers encouraged freedom and creativity, while graduate school mentors like Cynthia McDermott introduced advanced concepts like choice theory. The speaker emphasizes the importance of teacher-student connections and intrinsic motivation in learning.

Reflect on the significance of building relationships with teachers as described in the text.

How did the speaker's teachers encourage creativity and freedom in learning?

What does the speaker mean by 'intrinsically motivate a child'? Provide examples from the text.