superb story of a dedicated young teacher who set out teach minority child in an area off south carolina . jon voight be just tremendous a the headstrong and dedicate and idealistic teacher who face this challenge despite a principal and who believe in stern discipline and have little regard for modern educational technique as well a a crusty old school superintendent and play with relish by the late hume cronyn . madge sinclair be the principal who love her baby . a i be a retired teacher and i could in some way relate to this excellent film . the ignorance show here as well a the lack of cooperation with official be also quite apparent in urban area . voight realize that these child need far more than the traditional teaching of a classroom . he have them go out and experience life by themselves by learn outdoors . the end be a definite downer but so true to life . amaze that such backward student have a zest for learn and be well discipline . i guess that answer my question . the behavior be there and they be motivate to succeed despite their environment . the end will just tug at your heart . it be memorable and so well poignant .