Thanks to a
By Ashley Takata
dedicated teacherDESPERATELY struggling during the middle of my 8th grade year at Kaimuki Middle School, I was scared, thinking that I was not going to pass. How was I going to explain to my mother that I was failing in English and Social Studies, two of my most difficult classes?
Unfortunately, both were core classes, so I knew I needed help. I dreaded thinking about the consequences when my mother found out that I had been deceiving her. Whenever she had asked about my grades, I would tell her that I was doing well.
Who was I to turn to? Seeking help has always been a problem for me. My self-esteem was so low that it was too embarrassing to let others know how poorly I was doing. I knew how deep the trouble was when I received my two deficiency notices.
By this time, my future as a basketball player also looked dim. I realized that to continue playing this sport that I truly love, this sport that keeps me out of trouble and allows me to be in a safe environment with other athletes who share the same dream, I would have to focus first on my academics.
Still, I did not feel comfortable asking anyone for help.
WHEN I brought my notices home, my mother was so angry that she called Rodney Su-zuki, my math teacher and basketball coach, and told him that she would be taking me out of basketball until I was able to raise my grades.
He asked my mother to give him a chance to work with me, and hoped that my grades and attitude would improve.
Mr. Suzuki immediately sat me down in class and talked to me about the importance of school work. He reminded me that basketball is secondary and told me that I would never be able to play sports in high school with grades as poor as mine.
He worked with me every day beginning at 7 a.m. He checked my homework, my class assignments and helped me prepare to take tests. This was a math teacher generously giving his time to help me with two other classes. I realized how lucky I was. He inspired me to try hard, stay focused and be responsible for my actions -- the same kind of skills that worked for me on the basketball court.
Surprisingly, I found myself eagerly awaiting these tutoring sessions. My grades and basketball performance improved and I gained confidence in myself. It was a great feeling.
Much of how I grow and progress now has so much to do with the strong foundation that Mr. Suzuki set for me. My 8th grade year was truly a memorable one, and I do not worry about the future. I will always be grateful to Mr. Suzuki.
Ashley Takata is a 9th grader at Kalani High School. Rant & Rave is a Tuesday Star-Bulletin feature
allowing those 12 to 22 to serve up fresh perspectives.
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