Kozol’s Core Beliefs
What does Kozol say is more important than test scores? Ch. 13, p. 191
Building trust and love with students.
Who are Kozol’s letters mainly written to?
A new first-grade teacher named Francesca.
What does Kozol say children need most from teachers? Ch. 13, p. 193
Attention and genuine affection.
What unfair difference between schools does Kozol describe?
Funding gaps between rich and poor communities.
TRUE OR FALSE...Kozol believes that over time, only student test results define a teacher’s impact.
False
Why does Kozol criticize standardized testing?
It takes joy and creativity out of learning.
What quality does Kozol say good teachers always keep?
Compassion, even when they’re tired or frustrated.
What does he warn teachers never to do when talking to kids?
Talk down to them or make them feel small.
What does Kozol say about teachers working in poor neighborhoods? Ch. 15, p. 210
Their work is morally heroic.
What does he remind teachers to hold onto? Ch. 15, p. 211
Their sense of joy and purpose.
What does Kozol say teachers must protect in their classrooms? Ch. 14, p. 204
Children’s curiosity and imagination.
Why does Kozol tell teachers not to lose heart? Ch. 15, p. 211–212
Because real change starts with small acts of care.
How can a teacher “see” a child fully, according to Kozol? Ch. 14, p. 200–201
By listening to their stories and showing interest.
Why does Kozol compare rich and poor schools?
To show how inequality affects opportunity.
What should teachers remember when they make mistakes? Ch. 15, p. 213
It’s part of learning and growth.
TRUE OR FALSE...Kozol encourages teachers to care about their students’ lives, not just their grades.
True
What does Kozol encourage young teachers to resist? Ch. 15, p. 214
Becoming cold or mechanical in their teaching.
TRUE OR FALSE....Kozol says teachers should always prioritize the emotional needs of students over classroom rules.
True.
What does Kozol say society should value more?
The teachers who stay and care in struggling schools.
What does Kozol say great teachers pass on to others?
Hope and moral courage.
What does Kozol believe is the true goal of education?
To nurture a child’s full humanity, not just academics.
TRUE OR FALSE...Kozol thinks teachers should focus mainly on discipline and control.
False
What does Kozol say every student deserves from their teacher?
Respect.
TRUE OR FALSE...Kozol believes wealthy schools and poor schools usually have the same resources.
False.
What is Kozol’s main message at the end of the book?
Keep loving, keep teaching, and don’t give up.