Jaime Escalante pictured here with Edward James Olmos.
This photo was taken from http://www.losanjealous.com.
I was sad to find out today that Jaime Escalante passed away. Professor Escalante spent many years as a mathematics teacher in an inner-city school. He challenged students to tackle college-preparatory mathermatics, including AP Calculus. What happened in his class was so special that it was captured in the movie Stand and Deliver; where Professor Escalante was portrayed by Edward James Olmos.
The movie and the story were highly motivating to me. Professor Escalante made a difference to many young people. He challenged and encouraged them to excel. When I was a new teacher I felt challenged by his example to be a better teacher. So, I am saddened to find this out. My prayers go out to his family.