As schools open around the country, here’s my 2013 converation with RAFE ESQUITH, who for 30 years taught 5th grade at LA’s Hobart Elementary public school. In 2005, PBS aired the documentary, THE HOBART SHAKESPEARIANS, about the full folio Shakespeare productions that his students perform each year. “I don't want my students to be ordinary; I want them to be extraordinary because I know that they are. If a 10-year-old, who doesn't speak English at home, can step in front of you and do a scene from Shakespeare,” says Esquith, "then there is nothing that he cannot accomplish.” We talk about REAL TALK FOR REAL TEACHERS: Advice for Teachers, From Rookies to Veterans: No Retreat, No Surrender! You can learn more at hobartshakespeareans.org