“Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” Pablo Picasso
River peace was my friend and mentor. He was a passionate teacher and taught with passion. He loved teaching yoga, conservation and civil rights. He even started an after-school yoga club for students of all ages. He fought for the underdog and made his classroom a place of tolerance, acceptance and inclusiveness. His students quickly learned he was a safe person with whom they could share their concerns and fears. River Peace inspired me to be a passionate teacher. His excitement about his students and his classroom was contagious. His professional drive and willingness to take risks inspired me to be a better teacher. Sadly, he was taken from our world far too soon. But I’m grateful for his friendship and everything he taught me.
Is there a teacher who inspires you? How do they use their passion to impact their teaching? What lessons have you learned from them? Take time to thank them. Your recognition means the world to them. And by the way, the chances are pretty good that YOU’RE inspiring another teacher. Pay it forward!
(Access to these photographs does not constitute a transfer of copyright or a license for commercial use. The images are for personal use only. No portion of the images can be used without the expressed written permission of Michael B. Stanley, Jr.)
