OBSERVATION: Whatever we are today has been influenced by scores of good teachers who taught us how to do things, filled our minds with information and ideas, shaped our attitudes and our deepest beliefs, inspired our ambitions and helped us form our self-image.

Image: Mr. Feeny of Boy Meets World

Most of our teachers were not educators; they were our parents, grandparents, friends, coaches and others. Still, a great school teacher can have a great impact.  Many films and TV shows have centered on great teachers. Please look at the following list and tell us in the comments which is your favorite (and add any story you are willing to share about a great teacher in your life).

1) Mr. Miyagi (Karate Kid),

2) Mr Feeny (Boy Meets World),

3) Miss Honey (Matilda),

4) John Keating (Dead Poets’ Society),

5) Yoda (Star Wars),

6) Annie Sullivan (The Miracle Worker),

7) Professor Dumbledore (Harry Potter),

8) Glenn Holland (Mr. Holland’s Opus)

9) Jaime Escalante (Stand and Deliver)

10)  Severus Snape (Harry Potter),

11) Ms. McGonigall (Harry Potter),

12) William Hundert (Emperors Club),

13) Mr. Kotter (Welcome Back, Kotter),

14) Unnamed Economics teacher (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off), 

15) Dewey Finn (School of Rock)