5 Heartfelt and inspirational teachers in pop culture

A good teacher inspires, motivates and encourages their students to believe in their potential and pushes their students to go beyond their comfort zones. A good teacher also encourages students to carry their own weight, demystifies even the most terrifying journeys, and joins in on the celebrations when their students succeed. This Teachers' Day, let's take a moment to appreciate the teachers who go above and beyond for us. They sometimes may do things we do not enjoy but nevertheless, their teachings remain timeless and valuable.

Here are some teachers in movies/TV series that resonate this sentiment and represent a unique bond with their students:

John Keating from Dead Poets Society

Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society is worthwhile for his performance and the lessons his character John Keating imparts on his students. The enthusiastic and free-spirited private school instructor persuaded his students to make their lives extraordinary by embracing each day. Keating further urged his students to cultivate self-efficacy, the conviction that they are capable of creating and appreciating poetry. Keating also stressed that poetry had a tangible impact on students' lives and was not just something they read in the classroom.

Throughout the film, Keating's unconventional teaching techniques encourage his students to think independently, follow their passions, and reject conformity. His ability to strike a balance between aggression, empathy and compassion earns him the respect and support of his students.

Manish Kulkarni from Never Have I Ever

Everyone dreams of having one cool instructor who understands when to be tough on them and when to be supportive. Kulkarni, played by Utkarsh Ambudkar, is beloved for being unafraid to be honest with Devi played by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan. This character is the perfect mix of a disciplinary authority and a friend who extends an empathetic arm when necessary.

Miss Honey from Matilda

Miss Honey, played by Embeth Davidtz, is just as sweet as her name. Miss Honey is a teacher who exudes love, compassion and empathy. She is committed to providing her students with a joyful environment in which they can learn and nurture their (sometimes telekinetic) gifts. All the students at the school respect Miss Honey and look to her for guidance and protection. She supports education and learning and is always looking out for her students.

Professor McGonagall from the Harry Potter Movies

Professor McGonagall might not be friendly and always easy to talk to. She might not even respond to every email or acknowledge your ideas with outward enthusiasm and give you the praise you might deserve. However, if something were to happen to you, Professor McGonagall would be heartbroken, just as she was when she feared they had lost Harry seeing him seemingly dead in Hagrid's arms. Despite her rough and tough exterior, she wants what is best of her students and the entire school. She is tough, and has a sharp wit. She also has the intelligence to know when to follow the rules and when to break them, when to hold students accountable for their actions and when to let it slide.

Sister Mary Clarence from Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit

Whoopi Goldberg returns in Sister Act 2 as the nightclub performer-turned-undercover-nun "Sister Mary Clarence," inspiring a group of unmotivated teenagers at a failing school to become a full-fledged, award-winning chorus. Sister Mary Clarence exudes the special combination of assurance, dedication and imagination that make her an outstanding educator. She is able to entice the students while also setting boundaries with them. Additionally, she is able to connect with her students that transcends the traditional teacher-student relationship allowing her to focus on their unique talents and limitations.