Today I found out one of my former students passed away earlier this month. We're probably not supposed to have favorite students, but she was one of my favs -- in part because I saw her grow so much from one semester to the next in a way that inspired me to be a better teacher.
I first met Kierra in my 1L legislation and regulation course. She was one of the quieter students in her first-year section. I'm not sure she ever volunteered to speak in class (though I nudged her to participate), but she was always there and engaged -- and smiling.
We would often speak after class about the course material and life. I could tell this particular material didn't come easily for her, but she worked hard and grappled with the material.
I was so thrilled to see her in my state and local government law course the following fall, and in that class I saw her blossom intellectually. She was an active participant every day.
She shared her personal experiences and encouraged the class to think critically about the course material and how the law interacts with race and gender. She was passionate, and her participation made me challenge some of my own assumptions about the law.
Her final paper (and presentation) on zero tolerance policies in Ohio public schools was compelling. In that paper I saw an agent fighting for change, and I was so excited to see the impact she would have on the world and the legal profession in the years to come.
Getting to know her that semester, I definitely saw what her obituary captures: "Kierra was a dreamer, and all of her dreams were filled with ways to help people and assist in the betterment of their lives." nljonesandsons.com/memsol.cgi?pag…
So my heart hurts to discover that this world will not receive the full benefits of her dreams, passion, and advocacy.
But, Kierra, you made a profound impact on my life, and I am a better teacher (and person) because you decided to enroll in my local government class that semester. I am no doubt just one of countless who were better off from having known you. R.I.P.
