The Best Student: Reflections on a Teachable Moment in Morocco
Reflecting on my teaching experience in the Moroccan town of Beni Mellal, I often wonder about the students who stood out the most. Teaching in the Peace Corps, I encountered students from various backgrounds and gifted young individuals who were shining in their own unique ways.
Dealing with Different Categories of "Best"
When it comes to identifying who was the 'best' student, it is not a straightforward question. There are different categories to consider. I once taught a brilliant boy who was extremely talented in chess and basketball. Another student, a young girl, was so sweet and charming that she earned a special place in my heart. There was also a girl who excelled in behavior, earning a perfect record throughout the year. Each of these students excelled in their own categories, bringing unique strengths to the classroom.
A Teachable Moment with Latifa
Forty years ago, I found myself teaching at a lycee in Beni Mellal, Morocco, where co-education was a relatively new concept. Among my students were some of the first young women to graduate from the school. This group included a remarkable student named Latifa, whose sharp and perceptive mind stood out even among her talented peers.
Latifa's career goal was to become a flight attendant for Royal Air Maroc, which was perhaps not the ambitious choice one might expect from a gifted student. However, analyzing her decision from a historical and cultural perspective, I can better understand her reasoning. Women in that era in Morocco faced limited opportunities, and pursuing a career in aviation offered a unique path for personal and professional growth.
Understanding the Context and Consequences
At the end of the academic year, all the students participated in the baccalaureate exam, the results of which would determine their futures. The students were immensely anxious, and I tried to alleviate their fear with light-hearted discussions about the process. Latifa, however, stopped the conversation and earnestly explained the weight of their situation. She pointed out that staying in the small town meant no future for them. Breaking tradition by continuing their education meant they might miss the age when marriage was expected. If they failed the exam, their options might be limited and dire.
I was deeply relieved when all six students, including Latifa, passed the exam and won scholarships to study in Rabat. Reflecting on that moment, I realized the courage and sacrifice these young women had to make. It was a profound reminder of the privilege I had in my own comfortable and stable life, and the stark reality they had to face.
Conclusion: The Impact of Education
Latifa and her peers represent a powerful example of the impact of education in communities where opportunities are limited. Their journey from a small conservative market town to the capital city, armed with the tools of learning, demonstrates both the challenges and the potential of breaking traditional barriers. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the courage it requires to navigate a new and uncertain path.