Mrs. Edwards

Mrs. Edwards was my second grade teacher in 1972-73. This was the year we learned how to read. I really was not doing well in class, I was afraid ask questions when I did not understand.

Mrs. Edwards called a conference with my mother and I. Talking one on one with my teacher helped me to realize that she was not just some stranger in charge of me while my mother was at work. I realized she was both teacher and friend.

Pretty soon my shyness disappeared and I began to flourish in all my subjects. I remember Mrs. Edwards standing at the chalkboard teaching phonics and spelling rules like it was yesterday.

I have three children and every time I helped them to learn to read, I think of Mrs. Edwards.

I believe that I love reading because of her.

-- Debbie Austin, St. Phillips College, San Antonio, Texas