The Story from American Public Media

At-Risk Teacher

Monday, September 15 2008 | Send to a friend

At-RISK TEACHER

Connie Heerman

Last September, Connie Heerman couldn't wait to teach her students about The Freedom Writers Diary. It's a book about "at-risk" students just like Connie's, who lead chaotic lives and have little expectation of finishing high school. Through perseverance and the guidance of a dedicated teacher, all of the students featured in the book made it to college. 

Since the book contains swear words and racial slurs, Connie repeatedly requested permission from her school administration to teach the book. When she received no response, she went ahead and gave the books out to her kids, and started teaching the unit. 

When the school found out, Connie was suspended for insubordination. She continues to plead her case. She talks with Dick Gordon about standing up for her students and for herself.

• Check the book, The Freedom Writers Diary
  

Tough Job: How to Drive Defensively

Anthony Ricci

Anthony Ricci discovered early on that cars could be used defensively.  He now teaches bodyguards, Navy SEALS, and contractors headed to war zones how to protect themselves through driving techniques. He talks with Dick about how hard it is teaching people who sometimes think they already know it all.

• See photos of Anthony teaching class and in the field
• Check out Anthony's website