He had no degree or educational training. But a gecko named Tiger was one of the most effective teachers Bronwyn Harris’ students ever had.
One of the best investments I ever made as a teacher was a baby lizard.
My third graders dealt with trauma often, as I taught in the most violent part of Oakland. Many lived in poverty and came to school hungry. Others were homeless. Many had seen friends or family shot.
With all this need in my classroom, people told me to spend money on books or pencils or food for the kids, which I did. But this little reptile was worth every penny and more.
The kids named him Tiger for his stripes that turned into spots as he grew. They were fascinated by him chasing and eating crickets, saying he was showing off to impress them. They loved him.