Without a doubt, the person and educator who influenced me tremendously in school was Barbara Larson.  I was priviledged to have Mrs. Larson for both 6th and 8th grades.  She was strict and a taskmaster but she encouraged us to have free thought and to do our best.  When I returned to Chicago to teach, I substituted at Marsh Elementary School and took over for Mrs. Larson when she went on a sick leave.  It was a thrill for me to be able to take over for the teacher who inspired me to become a teacher.  I mention her frequently to my Middle School classes when they "complain" about my teaching methods...LOL

Honorable Mention-  Mrs. Hoelscher 7th grade