Armless teacher ‘trusts wings’

Associated Press

HAMILTON, Ohio

Teacher Abe Harris’s extraordinary grasp of his potential long ago exceeded his reach.

The armless art instructor at Riverview Elementary in Hamilton has overcome a daunting physical challenge to excel as both a veteran teacher and youth sports coach.

Born without normal arms, Harris jokingly refers to the 6-inch protrusions from his shoulders as his “nubs.”

As a youngster, he learned to manipulate them deftly and has flourished in both his professional and personal life.

The married, 33-year-old father of a young daughter spends each school day surrounded by his students, who learn both art and life lessons from his inspirational example.

“He shows us how not to feel bad about yourself and to believe in yourself,” says Riverview fifth-grader Natalie Taveras.

Since high school, Harris has hung a large photo poster of NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, shown with his expansive arms outstretched to full length.

Always a fixture in his classrooms, the stark image is accompanied by a caption from English poet William Blake that reads: “No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings.” The poem stuck with Harris over the years and, he says, “I have trusted my wings ever since.”

Riverview Principal Mary Anne Hughes has lofty praise for Harris’ many talents.

“Not only is he the art teacher for the entire student body but he also is the intramurals coordinator and our volleyball, soccer, basketball and track coach,” Hughes said. “Mr. Harris provides an excellent role model for the entire Riverview family as a living example that nothing can stop you from reaching your goals.”

Here are some questions with answers from Harris:

Q. What are your first memories of wanting to be a teacher, and were you discouraged at least initially away from such work due to your physical challenge?

A. I didn’t think of being a teacher until my second semester at Miami University.

I was taking my core classes and as many art classes as I could get when one day an instructor suggested I consider art education.

He said I had a unique perspective on how art was created and was able to help people solve problems in new ways.

My other passion in life is sports, so a career in public education seemed right up my alley.

I always look at my physical challenge as positive in my life. Our differences are what make us all special.

Q. Was there one person who really inspired you to hold on to and live your dream of becoming a teacher?

A. I have been supported by so many wonderful people from parents to principals and everyone in between. I wouldn’t have been the young man I was without the support of my mother, who refused to let me think I was different than the other kids.

I wouldn’t have been the college student I was without counting on some very good friends. I couldn’t be a teacher and coach two Division I varsity sports without the grace and love from my wife, Amber, and daughter, Amelia.

Q. Can you describe the initial reactions of new students to your art class and sports teams?

A. I have been fortunate to work in the same community on the east side of Hamilton for most of my teaching career. I have known my varsity soccer players since they were in elementary school.

I have known some of the first- through sixth-graders I teach since they came to conference night in a stroller with their siblings.

Most of the time new athletes and students know all about me before they even come to my practice or class.

Q. What advantages does your physical challenge allow you as a teacher and coach?

A. In some ways it is harder to model and demonstrate making 3D works of art to students who are learning it for the first time. I have found ways of using older students to help show younger students how the process would look using hands.

Q. What role has religious faith played in your success?

A. Faith is an amazing force in my life.

Belief in something greater then yourself is what carries all mankind through their hardships.

I have always felt there is a plan for me.