Mallory Falk

An overconfident teen felt that he was above math class—until he needed his teacher’s help.

Ismael Jimenez inspired his student to think more deeply—and talk more openly—about identity, and she inspired him to become a better, more patient teacher.

Jessica Carlson wasn’t sure what to do with an angry student who dismissed her sunny exterior—but reconnecting years later revealed that they’d each been hiding a similar secret.

Kathleen Whalen thought she’d mastered managing her chaotic classroom—until she met a kindergartener who simply wouldn’t talk.

Matt Weiss was the “fun teacher,” but one of his most determined students came to school in search of a more serious learning experience.

New Orleans educator Michael Ricks reflects on a charismatic student he lost to violence.

Ashley Lamb-Sinclair and Connor Cummings clashed over their views. Years later, they came to an understanding on what they were really fighting about.

As a young teacher, Ingrid Chung could relate to her seventh-grade student Kayshaun Brown. If it weren’t for their connection, the bright but troubled student may have dropped out of school.

Part four of our audio series features the author Tracy Kidder and the teacher Chris Zajac reflecting on a troubled student who was ultimately sent to an alternative school.

Part three of our audio series brings the high-school English teacher Ann Neary’s story about the student Monique Beckford, who thought her optimism was an act.