[WhiteDaisy128]

So sad to hear about the passing of the legendary Maya Angelou.

I was fortunate enough to have had a conversation with her 10 years ago that significantly changed the way I viewed myself as a teacher. She asked me what I did for a job as a young college graduate. I told her that I was in my first year of teaching. She then asked me how old I was. I replied, 22. Then Maya asked what grade I was teaching. Fifth, was my reply. The next question was, "What was the name of your 5th grade teacher?" -- my quick reply was, "Carol Mangum, she was an amazing teacher." Then with a pleased look on her face, she asked if I thought my students would remember my name fondly when they were 22. It was the first time I considered the incredible lasting impact teachers have on even the youngest of students.

Crazy enough, I have past students who are now nearing 22. I do hope they do look back on their 5th grade year as one of the best of their school careers.

She was such a wise, wise woman who touched so many.