Catherine Borek is a 29-year veteran English and Theatre Arts teacher at Dominguez High School in Compton, California, and a California Teacher of the Year in 2023. As Ms. Borek describes her approach to teaching, host Ken Futernick asks what it’s like when former students come back and offer words of appreciation. Unbeknownst to Ms. Borek, one such student, Mariela Rojas, is waiting in the wings to do just that.

A former student’s surprise tribute to her teacher ignites a movement of gratitude for educators’ life-changing impact.

Should teachers tackle controversial issues in class? Civic education expert Diana Hess makes the case for balanced, democratic dialogue.

What should civics education look like in a democracy? Guests from diverse perspectives tackle controversial laws, teaching, and real-world civics.

How can character education save democracy? Experts share why building moral, democratic children is key to our nation's future.

In the era of fake news and political pressure, experts discuss how history and civics education can protect democracy and teach the whole story.

How can educators help students navigate fake news and motivated reasoning? Experts share strategies to foster evidence-based thinking.

How does inequitable school funding threaten democracy? Experts explore the impact on civic participation and solutions for change.

Bruce Stewart, a champion for social justice and education, hears a heartfelt tribute from a former student on his transformative legacy.

After 20 years as a teacher, Jen thanks her 3rd-grade teacher, Jane, who saved her life and inspired her to join the profession.

"Not all heroes wear capes." Watch Caroline's heartfelt tribute to Mr. Ball, her hero teacher—grab a tissue for this one!

When a teacher feels like a mother, one student’s heartfelt “thank you” shows how a few kind words can make all the difference.

Watch the heartfelt moment an 8-year-old and their parent thank a teacher who made 1st grade unforgettable—even during a pandemic.

Three Teachers of the Year share how teacher leadership shapes policy, strengthens schools, and ensures equitable education for all.

In spring 2019, CSU San Bernardino conducted a Celebration of Teaching Event for undergraduates interested in becoming a teachers. Faculty member, Wil Greer, shared this moving story about a child and the teachers who changed his life. 

In this story, we revisit a moving tribute from Nikki Ahrenstorff about her former English teacher and Above & Beyond honoree, Mr. Childs.

Nikki once believed her high school was “reserved for a special group of people” and that she wasn’t part of it. That changed when she stepped into Mr. Childs’ English class. His encouragement and belief in her helped change the way she saw herself—and what she believed was possible.

Nikki’s story is part of Teacher Stories’ ongoing work to capture the lasting impact of extraordinary educators, including those recognized by Above & Beyond Teaching.

Efrain Solis, a professional opera singer, honors his high school music and drama teacher who helped him discover his voice.

Gwen Reid develops a passion for "cowboy poetry"...in her sixties.  Her junior high summer school teacher and great grandmother had a lot to do with this.

Jennifer Vides is a civil engineer who helps build skyscrapers in Southern California. Her band teacher, Romeo Vera (at Manual Arts High School) helped Jennifer realize her childhood dream.

Rachell Auld shares an amazing story about her career path and how it was shaped by Dr. John Rosario from Riverside City College. This story is about finding one's true calling.