I now teach because of my second grade teacher; Olivia Ellis, of PS 321 in Park Slope, Brooklyn. My mom passed away that year and Ms. Ellis became a mom to me. My home wasn't happy at that time, but I loved going to school. Besides learning the academics, we learned about friendship, caring for others, and how to be kids.
One day she read "A Snowy Day". After she read the book, we all went out in the schoolyard and made snow angels in the fresh fallen snow. When we came back to the class, we had hot chocolate with marshmallows. That is still the best hot chocolate, the best Friday afternoon, and my favorite story. Although we don't have "Snowy Days" in Florida, I read that story to my students and tell them why I'm a teacher.
-Madeline Gore
Former student, PS 321K