My second-grade teacher was Ms. McBrier. She came to our home after school and told my parents, “Karen can learn, she just likes to talk and play in the classroom. Success for all of my students requires them to be good readers, no matter what grade level.”

Every time Ms. McBrier caught me giggling and talking, I had to read in front of the classroom. Needless to say Ms. McBrier was not my favorite teacher at the time, but she is the reason I am an avid reader today and able to confidently speak to an audience. Looking back, I wished I had told her what an inspiration she was to me while she was living.

Mr. Tillman Whitley reminds me of Ms. McBrier, who knows that reading is the key. I cannot answer your question, Mr. Whitley, as to why you were treated as a common criminal, but I know that you have touched many students’ lives, and will continue no matter where you are. That is what great teachers do.

Karen Frederick

Vicksburg