It was a competitive examination [in Boston Latin School]…
![“It was a competitive examination [in Boston Latin School]. Poor kids, Brahmans, middle-class kids. The masters, as the teachers were called, didn't give a damn about - how we felt, what was - things like at home. I mean, this goes against the current grain. All they thought about was: 'You're…” quote by Nat Hentoff](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/581/nat-hentoff-1615_boston_it-was-a-competitive-examination-in-bost_2660360.jpg)
“It was a competitive examination [in Boston Latin School]. Poor kids, Brahmans, middle-class kids. The masters, as the teachers were called, didn't give a damn about - how we felt, what was - things like at home. I mean, this goes against the current grain. All they thought about was: 'You're here. You made the exam. You can do the work. And if you can't, we'll throw you out.'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Educational systems often ignore students' emotional needs, focusing solely on performance.
In simple terms: Schools ignore emotions.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for holistic education.
Themes
education
empathy
performance
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
advocacy
analytical
When to use this quote
- classroom teaching
- policy reform
- student counseling
Key Concepts
critical pedagogy
social justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can schools balance standards with empathy?
- What policies support student well‑being?
A Different Perspective
Changing entrenched attitudes is challenging.