Having taught in conservatories, in University programs of some renown, and Graduate programs in the arts -- I have earned perspective on students, teaching, and teachers. On the University level I encountered lazy teachers, or narcissistic teachers, or egomaniacs using textbooks they had written-- and bad teachers, and self-indulgent teachers, and unconnected teachers. At the Graduate level I encountered meglamaniacal professors -- and professors who shouldn't be teaching anyone, now or ever. And some very good professors as well.
Now in teaching at a technical college, Savannah Technical College, I have encountered the same types of teachers. But...the students here are more diverse, hungry, and open to the best I can give them. They are students in the old and wonderful sense -- they are "tabulas rasas" wherein the teacher (and the other students, and themselves) can write the wonders of knowledge and growth.
My students at STC are not perhaps the best prepared -- but they are most open to the process of preparation. They are not perhaps the best supported -- but the support they give themselves is courage of a high order.
They keep open minds -- and fill them with what they consider the best. And that then makes them the "best."
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