LETTERS: ALL TEACHERS GIVE IT THEIR BEST

To the editor:

I have read with interest an item regarding the best teacher. I have concluded that all teachers are best as far as their skills, knowledge and love for the teaching profession is concerned. All teachers have a love for children and a love of their profession.

Like most professions, however, the personality of a person plays a major role in whatever he or she undertakes.

When I attended Central High School, my teachers had various personalities. That impressed me somewhat. Some instructors were cheerful, such as Lucille Buck, who taught English. Some were distant, such as Viola Harrison, who taught Latin. And another was distraught, such as Miss Leeper, who taught history. Friendly instructors always gave me the initiative to please and do my best. I was less interested in my class with Miss Leeper, since her personality disturbed me. Maybe that is why I chose personality to be a major factor in selecting a best teacher. It turned out that it was. In my estimation, however, I truly believe that applies to every walk of life: politicians, ministers, entertainers. And the list goes on.

I remember at one time we had a young vicar at the church I was attending whose personality was so captivating that no matter what he said everyone was absolutely in awe of him. I remember the vicar's superior being so disturbed by that he one day told him he could recite "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" and everyone would be in awe. I have always felt it isn't so much what one says but how it is said. Do you agree?

After all is said and done, I still conclude that all teachers are best. They give it their best show, and that is what counts.

PAULA E. KEMPE

Cape Girardeau