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(KSL News) The teacher who inspired and compiled the book "Freedom Writers" spoke to Utah teachers today.
Erin Grunwell spoke about her experience teaching at-risk kids in California and how teachers can, and do, make a difference. "It's not about the money. It's not about economics. It's about that moment when you know the kid gets it, when they have that glow in their eye, when that light bulb goes off," Grunwell said.
Grunwell told teachers how she related her students' experiences to others, such as Anne Frank, and encouraged them to write down their stories. The stories were published in the book "Freedom Writers," which was later made into a movie.
With Grunwell's help, her students were able to succeed both in high school and college.
She is currently serving as president of the nonprofit Freedom Writers Foundation that promotes inclusion of students and provides children in need with scholarships. For more information on the foundation, click the related link.
