TTBP - Teachers To Be Praised

I had many teachers in my school career that made an impact on me in both positive and negative ways. Some teachers, with their love, care, concern and connections, have set an example of the kind of teacher that I would like to be.  There have also been a few teachers that have set the example of what not do orhow not to act.  I would like to share the story of a teacher who made a positive impact.

Walter Dewar - He was a high school math teacher.  I had him for geometry and calculus.  I was not a math genius.  In fact, I didn't really like math.  I was pretty good at solving equations and word problems but geometry was not my thing!  Mr. Dewar, though, made learning fun.  He set the tone of high expectations but he also created a safe climate where we could take chances and not experience the fear of failure.  From the constant playing of the song, "We are the Champions" to the carrot of a money prize, he encouraged us to achieve at high standards.  He set a goal that if at least 100 girls would take BC Calculus our senior year and pass the exam then he would give us $100 and take us to eat at III Forks!  He set that challenge our sophomore year. He constantly talked about it and encouraged us. And guess what, we accomplished that goal.  WOW!  I will never forget the feeling of pride and excitement.  And even better, I got AP credit and didn't have to suffer through Calculus in college!

Thanks Mr. Dewar! You inspired me...