Marva Collins was an American educator who is best known for founding the Westside Preparatory School in Chicago in 1975.
Collins’ teaching methods emphasized discipline, hard work, and academic excellence, and her school quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional students.
Collins’ approach to education was rooted in the belief that every child has the potential to excel academically, regardless of their socioeconomic background or previous academic performance. She emphasized the importance of a strong foundation in basic skills, such as reading and mathematics, and encouraged her students to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives.
Collins’ success as an educator gained national attention, and she was the subject of a 1981 made-for-TV movie called “The Marva Collins Story.” She was also the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Jefferson Award for Greatest Public Service by an Individual 35 Years or Under, which she received in 1983. Collins passed away in 2015 at the age of 78..
Marva Collins’ teaching methods emphasized the importance of academic rigor, hard work, and discipline. She believed that every child has the potential to excel academically and that the key to unlocking that potential is to create a challenging, engaging, and supportive learning environment.
In addition to academic instruction, Collins also emphasized character development and personal responsibility. She taught her students the importance of self-discipline, respect for others, and perseverance in the face of challenges. She encouraged her students to set high standards for themselves and to work hard to achieve their goals.
Overall, Collins’ teaching methods were designed to create a positive and challenging learning environment that empowered her students to succeed academically and personal