Farrah Remembers Mrs. Baylor

I was a timid child, and I was always reluctant to ask my teachers for help. I felt like I was bothering them. When I found myself struggling in geometry class during the fall of my sophomore year, I knew my only option was to seek help from my teacher. I had exhausted all other resources in trying to complete a homework assignment; so I mustered up all my courage and stopped by to see Mrs. Baylor after school.

I remember softly knocking on Mrs. Baylor’s door and peeking inside. She cheerfully waved me in and invited me to sit in a chair by her desk. I apologized profusely for bothering her. She stopped me and (in a voice much sterner than usual) told me never to apologize for asking for what I needed.

It was a message I would hear from Mrs. Baylor over and over. Every time I started to apologize for asking a question, she would put up her hand and remind me that I have a right to advocate for myself and my own learning. It was one of the most powerful lessons I learned in all my years of schooling. Thanks to Mrs. Baylor, I stopped shrinking back and started speaking up.

I hope Farrah’s story helped you see how much your work matters.

Julie

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