My name is Brad Cohen
But when I was a kid
people called me by lots of names.
My brother Jeff called me Dr. Bo Bo
My mom called me ha..honey
And the kids at school? Well, they called me everything.
From spaz to freak.
I didn’t have many friends actually.
But I did have a constant companion
I can barely remember a time when it wasn’t there.
Now sometimes it wasn’t a problem for me.
Other times.....
It was.
Drop Drop.
- Drop what? - Drop books
Stop it.
Something scare you Brad now?
Roll....
uh.
Give me a leave baby.
uh....
Fight! Fight! Fight!
What is going on?
Come on. Beat off.
Stop. Stop that fighting right now.
Come on.. Come on...
Get back to class.
Stop that nonsense.
You are in big trouble this time.
The girl fell in the mud and got dirty.
one thing my constant companion and I agreed on
was that we hated school.
I couldn’t wait through I got out.
No more home work...
No more books...
no more teachers` dirty looks.
Stop.
My companion first shoot off when I was Six.
But it was used when I had an eight.
Now the shrinks (Psychologists) said that just I was hyper.
I made funny noises, nap and weird, to draw attention to myself.
It was just a phase. I grow out of it and be normal...
like everybody else.
Through it all, my constant companion stuck with me.
Now to my friends I am just regular old Brad.
The guy who likes baseball.
and loves cheesy 80`s music
which they think is much weirder than the noises I make.
"...... searching low"
"Ba ba ba ba baby"
"Don’t forget my number......"
"Ba ba ba ba baby......"
"Baby don't be stronger than a thunder..thunder..."
"Ba ba...ba ba... baby...baby.."
"Don’t forget my number..number"
Good afternoon officer!
Was I speedy?
12 miles. Over the limit.
St. Louis ha..
You’re tourist?
Uh, no, I live in Atlanta, I just moved here.
I guess I've little bit distracted.
So ... you’ve been drinking?
No. No. Sir, I.. I have 'Tourette syndrome'.
Take it easy sir
I need you to sign here.
So what kind of job you look for?
Teaching.
I gonna be a teacher
uha..
I get there look a lot.
But I never allowed to get in.
I see you've got a B. A. from Bradley University
- That's in Illinois, isn't it? - Yes Madam.
Graduated cum laude
High recommendations
You are a student teaching avals are outstanding.
Excellent!
What made you decide to go into teaching?
It’s all I`ve ever wanted to do,
Actually I was born to teach.
Why did you choose Atlanta?
I mean Missouri is your home.
Yeah. No I’m....
I think it's because I’m Braves fan ...
so ... aa....
Georgia honoured my Illino is teaching certificate .
Plus, I fell in love with Atlanta.
When I worked down here as a camp counselor
I live here now.
So live my dad and my step mom.
Well, its nice to have family here too.
Give you support.
Maybe we should talk about the elephant.
Elephant?
In this room ... my Tourette.
No, the Americans with disabilities Act doesn’t allow me to ask.
I know. But I would like to tell you
Just like I tell the kinds in my classes.
You see, I explain to the that its a brain thing.
That causes middle. Make the strange noises they are like....sneezes.
Irrepressible when you have to...
...you have to.
How do they react?
Once they understand, its fine thing.
It never cause a problem in the class room.
All I want is a chance.
Just give me the interview and let me prove to them that I can do the job.
The Americans with Disabilities Act says I`m entitled to a chance.
Ron!
They have to go?
Aaaa.....
You know ... Who wants a teacher that barks like a dog?
You should try another line of work.
Are you serious?
Didn’t they look at your résumé?
Aah..... You’re kidding me.
They are setting up some interviews with school principals.
Fantastic!
when?
Eh...I do not know. I got to wait for the call.
Get change and we get to go celebrate.
Haven’t you got a date?
Eh... she.. she’s got a friend.
It is about time you start meeting girls.
I cann`t focus on dating right now.
Has anybody told you that you’re obsessive?
Aa... Only every shrink I've ever saw.
Have fun focusing.
Oh, Your dad called again.
May be you should came back,
you know.
I will see you letter.
Returning dad’s call?
Eh..
I had to prepare for that.
See mom and dad had divorced when I was a little kid...
and my relationship with dad has always been...
Aaa.... lets just say complicated.
I mean I wore out his patience like nails on a chock-board.
It didn’t help that my brother Jeff was also a little hyper
Dad said he is waiting get back to his home Atlanta
He is waiting to say good bye.
Byeeee
You gonna make a mad!
Come on, race.
Against the Green Dragon? You gotta be kidding.
Sucker. That’s you are.
You go on a bike.
See you Jeff.
Hey.. that’s not fair
You’re not gonna beat me.
Oh! that’s not fair.
You are on bike.
Ok Guys, quit down guys, quit down
We do have neighbours, you know.
Come here. Did you see? I beat you.
Ya...
Calm down.
Brad come here. Come on honey Focus. Will you?
Come here. Come here. Stand here. Listen. Listen up.
Focus please. Alright.
I need you guys so do me a favour I want to make things easier for your mom..
Okay?
You are driving her nuts.
Guys, listen. hey.. hey.. Stop it. Brad.
Help her around the house for most of all. let us stop obnoxious behaviour. Okay?
Hey. Listen I mean it.
okay? Quit the clowning your brother may think its funny but I do not.
I can not help it.
Yes, you can. Its nothing wrong with you. Little self-control would fix.
Now stop it.
Norman?- Yes? They will not stop the plane for you.- Okay. Alright
Give me hug
Aaa........
See you dad. Bye bye Jimin!
I love you, dad.
Love you, too my kid.
And listen up.
- We’ll stay my house next time. Okay? - Okay Dad.
I'll get tickets to see the Braves Game.
Brad!
Remember we talked about. Self control.
Alright?
- Do you need any help Mom?- - Well, now that you mention it.
After the divorce Jeff and I helped mom with a new business.
Sort of a high class traveling boutique
Well, may be help isn’t exactly the right word.
Oh1 Ellen, these things are exquisite.
You never found styles like these in St. Louis.
That was directly from California Beverly Hills.
This is what everybody wear. Look at.
Boys.
Boys
Hide and Seek ?
- Count - 1, 2, 3 ...
Now Ellen, I don’t want to see anything from double digits.
Honey! everything in California runs small. Go ahead. just try it on .
Brad. Will you please calm down?
Barking like a dog for goodness sake!
Now look. Don’t take this in wrong way. You know I wouldn’t say this to you.
We are friends. But have you considered an exorcist?
You know ... I think you might accept that your size is 12.
I cut the label if it makes you feel better.
Its a new doctor. Lets just listen to what he has to say.
You know what you have to say.
Do you feel any anger toward your mother ...
...because of a divorce?
No.....No....
Do you resent your father because he doesn’t live with you? hum?
No.
Do you blame yourself for the divorce matter?
It happened when I was little kid. I cann`t even remember.
Ms. Cohen, Brad has some serious denial issues regarding a divorce.
What you need at home are some clear boundaries he needs to understand.
that this behavior is totally unacceptable.
And that... Ms. Cohen..... is your job.
The hardest part was knowing how tough I made things for mom.
I tried it best as I could for her.
Make sure that you take my medications. yeah?
And for dad
Strike three!
I played sports.
In the ball-field I felt right in..
I mean everybody makes funny noises and has strange tics in a baseball game.
Come on Bo Bo.
Come on Hard on them!
Come on Bo..Bo..
Get him out Brad, get him out!
Come on. Brad, come on.
Yes, great play! Come on!
Thank you very much. Alright.
Hey guys.
I got some pretty exciting to tell you
Honey, Don’t eat so fast you so you cant get the hiccups.
- He’s always got the hiccups. - You're a hiccup.
Listen, hey, would you just relax?
Mom says you are not taking your medicine.
How are you ever...
how you ever can calm down if do not listen to the doctors pills prescription?
Pills makes it worse.
Oh, I see So your doctor now too. ha..
He is doctor Bo..Bo....
Shut up.
Al right guys, listen guys
I have a very important announcement to make.
Guys.
Guys. Alright that’s it. Go back to the car.
I am still hungry.
You know what would be nice?
One day ...! without you acting up.
One.
Wait up, Dad!
What’s an announcement, Dad?
I've been seeing somebody.
What do you mean seeing somebody?
Her name is Diane and she...
Brad please.
Stop doing that.
I cann`t.
I mean nothing happened yet but...
how would you guys feel about having a step mom?
No way.
We already have a mom.
Well, now you gonna have two.
I talked to mom about it. She is fine with it.
She said... I said stop it. Just stop it.
See I couldn’t really blame dad for losing it
My tics drove him nuts.
Because like my teachers he had no names for my strange behaviour.
Except insufferable.
Now somehow, I don’t know how I made ok grades
But what would take a normal person an hour, took me two or three.
I mean I loved learning.
But I hated... hated reading.
Trying to concentrate brought out the worst in my constant companion.
Brad.
Come up here please.
I know you think you`re the class clown, but I have headache with you.
I cann`t........ help it.
That’s what you always say.
I don’t wanna hear anymore excuses.
You’re classmates are trying to study...
...and your clowning makes it impossible.
Sorry.
Don’t apologize to me.
Apologize to them.
Eyes up here, everyone.
Sit up straight, please.
Brad has something to say to you.
I am sorry.
That you cann`t study because of me
And?
You promise never to make anymore silly noises ever again.
Promise to all making no more silly noises ever again.
Take your seat.
All of you back to your books.
It is difficult to resist. May be for you, Ms. Cohen,
I assure you that the teachers are at their wits end.
I understand that... But I will...
This will be a last chance
I mean THE VERY last chance.
Brad
Look I sent for your mother
because things are just going out of control for you.
Now she is gonna take you on this day.
You can come back
I cann`t help.
Sorry, what did you say?
He said he cann`t help it.
Right.
What if he is telling the truth? hum?
You got a right boy Ms. cohen.
But making excuses cann`t help.
Making excuses is not going to help.
He needs to use this time, ask himself, this
Brad. Hello. Lets go. Lets go.
Why am I sabotaging myself.
I do not care if they I expelled me.
I hate that school.
Well, is that school or another.
Hate all schools.
Why we are going here?
To find some answers.
I cann`t go in the library.
They will throw me out.
Please mom.
Alright.
Come here.
Sit over here.
Well, may be we are going down a wrong track.
Who?
All of us.
Get off me.
Chihuahua, Chihuahua. Ok you are really.
Oh No. I am not really.
I know you're busy Norman.
But I really think that you should do this.
Boys keep it down. I’m talking to your Dad.
I wanna talk to....
In a minute. Keep it down.
You know those teachers and Dr.
To them it is all about bad heritage.
Which of course comes down to me because I am the only one here.
No. I am not blaming you, Norman. In fact I’m gonna stop blaming myself.
I was talking to my friend and she thinks that doctors are missing something.
I get to start medical books in the library.
And I have been doing a little bit of research
Stop saying he just needs a discipline, Norman.
Nothing I do helps.
He is out of control and I am at the end of my rope.
Can I talk to Dad.
Can you just wait a minute honey?
Mom...
Alright, give it back to me when you're done.
What is it Jeffrey?
Hey, Dad
It was a great game.
I got two base hits and a walk.
Sorry because I caused so much trouble on.
I want you to read something in this book I’ve found.
Its a medical book that might explain why you make all those noises.
I hate reading mom.
Read.
Tourette Syndrome.
That that’s Brad, isn’t it?
These ... noises ... and ....tics...
I’ve surely to do more tests.
But..you could be right, and we may have been headed down the wrong road, here.
I have never actually seen...
...a case Tourette before.
So at last my constant companion had a name.
This says that there is no cure ...
but that may have changed this is an old book.
That hasn’t changed, Ms. Cohen.
I'm really sorry.
If are they still looking for a cure. Right?
I mean they will find one more day.
They have....
It’s okay, mom. Everything will be alright.
See? There is a reason, Dad.
I haven’t been weird on purpose.
Listen up, Brad.
I am...
Alright...that’s all I wanted to say.
Bye.
Finally my dad believed me.
But he never believed in me that I would succeed.
That I could teach.
Hello! This is Brad.
A dog?Aaa yes yes madam that is... that’s my dog. Aha!
Aaa... Okay.
Yes. Yes I can there be 11:00 a.m.
My very first interview.
Great. That sounds great.
Ok. Thank you.
I tried not to overreact.
I held in my tics.
Yes! Yes!
Waffle, yes!
After the first call, I got two more. Three interviews with three principals
Needless to say, my constant companion was more than a little enthusiastic.
Hum!
All I see that you have a bachelor degree.
- Are you planning to get your Master? - Yes sir.
As soon as I can.
We don’t require for interview. Let hope.
- But if you seriously about... - I am very serious...
I wanna make teaching my life.
I...
I make these noises because I have Tourette syndrome.
I would like to tell you about it. It’s a neurological disorder.
Where my brain sends make signal to my body.
It’s like sneeze.
It’s irrepressible.
However, in two week I will you call. Okay.
Okay. Thank you very much. Take care.
Well, strike one.
But, like mom always says don’t ever give up.
When I was little mom never stop researching.
Because while there was no cure there might be ways to live a normal life.
Church mom?
Honey you are not gonna have to get a Bible lesson.
It's just a support group.
But we have to.
You need to connect with other people who have Tourette.
Find out who they live with it.
Hey...
Lets do it.
I am not going in there ...
I had never seen anyone with Tourette before.
There were eye blinkers and nose stretchers....
..foot stampers and neck chuckers....
..some of them yelped and coughed.
Is this what I looked like to other people?
Come on Bo Bo.
We have to learn. And start learning.
The Americans with Disabilities Act gives us the right to do anything
we go on a place we want to.
But try to go to the movies.
..or consort or restaurant.
The law does not mean anything when people yelling you to shut up.
I come home, and my parents close the windows and blinds
because they don’t want neighbour to see me...
No one was even trying to be accepted
The adults were out of work, the kids stayed at home.
I knew one thing...
I didn’t wanna be like that.
Even his coaches and team wouldn’t accept him.
Oh! I cann`t hear it.
Of course yours home going too..
No. Brad goes to school like any other kid.
These kids are like any other kids
School is a waste of time for them.
I got it in third grade, just to save my sanity.
You want my advice.
You will do the same.
Lets go Bo Bo.
They're supposed to be a support. But where is the support?
Just hide away rest of your life?
I am really sorry that I brought you here. Honey I just..Forget this.
I don’t wanna forget this, mom
people let Tourette wins.
We never gonna do that.
Its difficult to imagine that at the age of 12
I would find a genuine philosophy to live by.
But here was this, the defining moment
To always face my adversity head on.
When I went my next interview I decided to be even more up front.
Get the Tourette theme out of the way first.
And then dazzle them with my approach to teachings.
....very successful, in spite your Tourette.
I worked very harder to become a best teacher I can be.
Thank you for coming here. I will let you know.
Thanks.
So much should being a front.
For my third interview I decided to avoid discussing my Tourette at all.
Each week I like to send home a progress report to my students` parents.
I like to give my students..through this they can interact in the classroom.
But also keep to the parents closely involved.
Ron it was a huge mistake not mentioning my Tourette.
It was like, you know, I was trying to hide it.
Fat chance.
Okay. That’s the negative.
Now the negative is that you get to stop stressing out.
Stressing me out? But the positive is that...
Hey!
the others didn't seem to have a problem with it, right?
I just....
I gonna wait for the call.
The positive is you come out with me.
My new girlfriend, she has a room mate.
Would you stop trying to set me off
When I am ready to date.
I will date.
Come on, she's heard all about you.
And she still wants to meet you.
Oh thanks. You’re kind.
Listen, I want to relax. Okay And wanna watch the Braves.
We all wanna watch the Braves
Get changed
"Someone like you.."
Ron told me that you’re finding a job. How's it going??
Aah.. Pretty good!
Except no one's hired me yet. I guess they`re all busy fighting get to me.
You do this?
I am impressed by this.
You should be.
I was not expacting this O..
That’s amazing!
- But I’m pretty good. - You are.
So you are really a sport fan?
- Aa.. yes big fan. - Okay.
Soccer..... Soft ball.....Tennis..
Yep.. I played a lot in college but not good enough for the pros.
I hear that, because I wished I was good enough to him.
- Who? - Him
- Are you wanna be a mascot? - Hmm..
- His name is Homer. - Homer
-And it’s a life long ambition. - Okay. Alright.
Don’t look now. Don’t look now.
There is a guys behind us and I don’t know what his problem is.
He keeps staring.
Aah..
I actually get that they look a lot.
It's a look of envy.
It’s thinking how can I make all noises like that guys?
You’ve such a great attitude about your...
Goodbye Homer. Bye.
- Bye Ron. - Bye Bye.
Bye Homer
So that must have gone well. Ha?
- Did you ask her out again? - Yes I Asked.
Yes, but, it`s second date syndrome.
You know, I'm a great guy, she had a lot of fun, but ...
Your tics are just too cool for her.
Actually, no, she says because my roommate's breath smells so bad.
- What do you mean? - You know what I mean.
This is Brad.
Ahh, hey, Dad.
Yeah, No Ron would be called that You know I've been so busy ...
No. I haven’t had lunch yet.
Alright. that sounds great.
Where do you wanna meet?
Lunch at Dad's work.
He wouldn’t have to worry about my noises there.
Let me know if you need more of these trusses. Okay?
Alright.
- Hey! - Hi Dad
- See you found your way. - Yeah
Let's grab lunch outside my office. Little more private.
Alright.
Dianne wondering when you're gonna come by.
- I guess it has pretty busy with job hunt. - Have you got?
Still interviewing.
How’s that going?
Are they giving you any trouble with your, uh...?
You can say the word, dad, Tourette.
Some of them are. Some of them aren`t.
- And how is your money holding out ? - I am not asking you for money.
I know that. You never ask me for anything.
No.
But if you ever do, get sure you know you get a job.....
I am gonna teach there. Okay?.
I can't let anything get in the way of that.
Okay.
I’m just saying that it is nothing wrong with keeping other options open in case things don’t work out.
You know there are other things besides teaching.
Not for me.
Dad could never understand my optimism.
Like, when I graduated to middle school....
I was really hopeful for things would be different.
What’s a matter Brad? Eating alone?
Make a fresh start. New school. New friends.
....and same result.
Today we gonna talking about fractions.
Fractions are your friends.
We use fractions in everyday life......
......you just don’t realize it.
For example, say your mother bakes a pie.
She cuts that .......
Cohen?
Just go to the principal’s office.
Not the best way to introduce myself to the Principal.
What do you think the school`s for, Brad?
- Sorry for disturbing the class. - You aren’t answering my question.
What’s the school for?
To educate. Isn’t it?
To use knowledge to wipe out ignorance.
The school orchestra has a concert this afternoon, do you plan to go?
No Sir....my tics would ruin the music.
I want you to be there.
Everybody just keep your seats for a minute, please.
Thank you. Enjoy the Concert
Great job.
Did you hear any noises during quite parts?
Yes.....
Yeah, Sure did I.
The pretty annoying. Aren’t they?
The person makes these noises is Brad Cohen.
Come on, up here Brad.
Do you like making these noises and upsetting people, Brad?
No Sir.
Then why do you do it?
Because I have Tourette Syndrome.
What’s that?
It's something in my brain that causes me make rude noises.
But you can control if you wanna, right?
No......No Sir.
- It’s a sickness. - Hum...
Well, why cann`t you just get cured?
There isn’t any cure.
I don’t like making noises anymore....
...then you like hearing them.
That’s even worse when I get stressed,
when you do not accept that I cann`t stop them.
But..when I feel accepted, not so bad.
What can we do?
And I mean everyone in this school.
What can we do to help you, Brad?
I just wanna be treated like everybody else.
Good job!
You may sit down.
A few words....A little education...
....and it was like opening a door through a brand new world.
Now someday, somewhere I knew Tourette or no Tourette
I was going to be a teacher.
I had no choice.
But to prove Tourette would never get the best way
If I quit, I would be agreeing everyone....
who had ever told me I was barking up the wrong tree.
Hum.....
hum.
I am sorry about it.
For air conditioning now.
Supposed to be fixed now?
No. It doesn’t concern.
Well you’re resume looks okay.
And we do have an opening in 5th grade.
Okay.
But I do have to tell you this is a tough place to work.
We get some really hard cases.
Well I’ll take that as a challenge.
I don’t think that any kid is hopeless.
Nearly all wanna learn. You cann`t give up. Let me just...
Get to find around a way to teach them.
Ahh, you got something stuck in your throat? would you like a drink?
I have Tourette Syndrome. I like to tell you....
Tourette? Isn’t....
That you yell out obscenities.
That is coprolalia. It’s a rare symptom.
that a small percentage of people with Tourette's have.
Okay. Listen. Did it not tell me that you are gonna be handicap
How do expect to handover a bunch of wild students....
with handicap like you ?
Well...
.... by educating them.
I let them know that it’s ok to talk about it.
These students would laugh at you.
Aaa.....
Not..Not when they understand it’s simply....
Okay. I have seen teacher with disabilities before .
And never with what you get.
I just don’t see how you could ever teach a class.
I can teach.
Look at my resume. Look at it.
Okay. I was very successful student.
My Tourette never posed a problem.
I can teach.
A bottom line, I need somebody now for the 5th grade
(If) you want teach here...
...you gonna have to refrain from making these noises in class.
Thank you very much for the interview.
But don’t you want a job?
Yes, Actually.
I want it really bad.
But I would never....
....ever work for man who doesn’t care about his students
So I take my port folio and take no more your time
You got a great boss.
It was the worst interview I ever had.
All he could see when he looked at me was my Tourette's.
If all any of them see.
Well, honey if they cann`t see what a great teacher you would be.
That is their failure not yours.
Well, it should seem like my failure.
Well... If you say so... you know what....
Why don’t you just throw the and come home?
- I’ll buy you a ticket. - I am not saying that.
Really? But sounds like that what you saying.
It sounds like you `re letting Tourette win.
I am not letting Tourette win.
- Really? - Yes, Really!
Look. I never gonna give up. Just...
I have to find a right school.
You will Bo Bo...... You will.
So I decided it wasn’t Tourette.
I just hadn’t found a right school yet.
I would keep working and I wasn’t quitting until I found that Principal.
I made a map of every school where I hadn’t interviewed.
If the principal wasn’t in, I gave my resume to a secretary
...or and asked them to drop it off when the principal returned
I didn’t care. I needed a job.
I wasn’t gonna stop until I had.
you will be starting at the bottom but that’s not a big deal.
That's where I started, and nearly worked 7 to 4.
I told you this is only part time, I need keep my morning open for interviews.
- I thought your school had started. - No. Not at all.
Well, we'll see what happens.
Here are tools for trainee. At least for the time being.
Like I said, from below.
But every job is important here and know where you can like it.
- And as your time begin ... - Do not you hear what I just said?
I only work here until I get a teaching job.
All that stuff has to go to dumpster.
The hiring season was ending.
My interviews had dried up. School had started.
I was running out of time and money and hope.
"DOOR BELL RINGS"
Dianne.
I gave up on you ever come to me so I just came to you.
Are you busy?
It was my step mom Dianne,who was trying to build bridges with Bo Bo.
Your dad built his business with his own hands,
You cannot blame him for wanting you to be part of it participate.
You just be your dad.
He wants you in his life.
So, how do you like Atlanta?
Do you meet any nice girl?
I'm just saying all the right things, huh?
Let me give you a refill.
Brad... Brad...
Your dad loves you....
..so much.
you just do not want to see get hurt.
The only thing that hurt is the fact that he has never accepted who I am.
See, he’s got this idea for a perfect son who is normal....
...and does normal things.
Well, I never gonna be normal.
Or may be that’s not his idea, Brad.
May be that’s yours.
You’re right. You are not normal.
You have the gift....
.....to teach.
And it’s not in spite of your Tourette....
.....it’s because of it.
I have to go.
TELEPHONE RINGS
Hello, it’s Brad.
Aaa.... Yes. That’s a sheepdog.
Aa.. ha...
Yep, Brad... Brad Cohen.
10 o’clock is perfect for me.
Absolutely.
Okay. Great!
You must be Brad Cohen.
Aa.. ha..
I'm Jim Ovbey I'm the Principal around here. And...
Nice to meet you.
- Hillary Straka. Assistant principal. - Hello.
Come on in the office, Brad.
We heard you coming all the way from the parking lot
You have been making the round.
25 schools so far.
- And....
- Here, here is my resume. - Oh here? Oh...
We can look at that I mean, Brad, just come on in and......
Tell us why do you wanna be a teacher?
Okay.
Well, its a hope.
It’s what I always wanted to be ever since I was in the school.
You must have pretty inspired in teachers.
Well, I had an inspiring principal Mr. Mayer.
But my teachers,..
..they really only inspired me to be gonna teachers they never were.
What kind of teacher is that?
One who makes possible for kid for learn even if he’s different.
In a way that.... the best teacher I ever had was my Tourette.
- You don’t have to talk about. - No No it’s okay.
I make a point of being open about it.
It’s a never out of my students.
They can ask me anything they want about, anytime.
You must get some pretty interesting questions.
Oh! Ya.., sometimes it gets really personal.
I hope this question is not too personal, Brad.
Do you make those noises in your sleep?
I don’t know.
I am asleep.
No. No. I don’t tic in my sleep.
When I am relax the noises give a little bit of break....
....like just now.
Okay Brad. I wanna hear more about your teaching philosophy.
I would love to tell you about my teaching philosophy.
We talked for nearly two hours.
It was the best interview I ever had.
Well, Brad it was a pleasure to meet you.
Yeah.. Me too. Me too.
There are still many teachers to interview..
...but I'll let you know what we made a decision.
Okay. Great
- Thank you. - Thank you. Thank you.
Yes.
Still my constant companion is always warned me not to get my hope so.
But hope is a hard habit to break.
I was called one last time.
And asked to come in and meet with 2nd grade staff.
- Oh. So you student taught 2nd grade. Oh I love 2nd grade.
Because you still so open minded.
They are open to everything
You do manage to maintain little discipline, right?
While we being so open...
I do let them know what the boundaries are. Yes.
So Brad what do you think is the most important thing you have to teach?
Yeah. Well.. Besides the importance of reading and value of math....
...that it’s ok to be yourself.
It’s okay to color outside the lines, if that is who you are.
So it’s okay to ignore the boundaries?
No I ... I didn’t that.......
I am sorry but how could you expect kids to learn,
when you doing that all the time
- Oh come on, Brenda.... - No. No. It’s okay.
It’s a valid question and I wanna answer it.
Before they know me kids sometimes do think I am just weird or even scary.
But once I educate them about my Tourette..
..and they can see Mr. Cohen is a real person.
Who just happens to make funny noises, well, then they accept me..
....as a good teacher.
Just like they accept our view.
Well, may be we should all try to be more like 2nd graders.
Does anyone have any other question for Mr. Cohen?
Brad, thanks for coming in.
This school will be in touch with you and so just be patient.
It’s hard to patient when you feel you're going for a last chance.
And patience was never my constant companion strong with me.
I guess you never heard that school.
No. Not yet, they're still interviewing.
- No worries. - Okay.
-What that suppose to mean? - I just said okay.
I know what you mean.
You don’t think anybody will hire me if they have choice.
Do you read the mind now?
You know that this is gonna be my last day here
Why don’t you wait to if you get the job first?
I’m gonna get the job, dad.
-I just have to stay focused.
Why cann`t you just stay focused to realistic at the same time.
What’s wrong with that?
Well, Are you alright man?
You'll knock yourself out doing that!
- What is that happens while you driving? - I am fine.
Yeah. I don’t know.
Yes, you see another doctor.
I have seen doctor in whole life, Ron. They don’t help.
Well, you think you need to see somebody?
I really don’t.
There I was waiting for the phone ring again.
I tried to convince my self something good would happen.
DOOR BELL RINGS
My kid brother.
Not exactly what I had in mind.
How you doing, Bo Bo.
What.. what are you doing here? Why didn’t you tell me you’re coming?
You know you're in your boxers, right?
Did mom send you to check up for me?
Why? You need checking upon?
No. but...
Where do I put my stuff? - That’s great. You get the couch.
Wow, nice club. Is that new?
Ah. They're Dad's, he let me borrow them.
He thought maybe you could play little golf.
He got us a tee-time at his club.
So, what do you think? Three iron from here, little bro?
By the way thanks for the round.
Thanks Dad. Oh, wait ...
I forgot that you are not speaking.
I don’t wanna talk about dad right now.
You just saying to distract me because you know I’m going to beat you.
I am serious Brad. You and dad are getting along.
We get along just fine as long as we keep a long distance.
Is that you moved down here to keep a long distance?
I mean, you do not give anything to prove, right.
What are you now Jeff, shrink? Dr. Jeff? Huh?
I am sorry sir.
I am going to have ask you to stop making those noises.
-Look pal, He's not doing it on purpose... - No, no, I cannot, Jeff. I got it..
- Look, that is not fair to other golfers. .
I understand, I cann`t help making those noises
Because I have Tourette syndrome. It’s a neurological disorder.
- I would like to tell you about it. Since I
You get to have leave the course.
I get to think about the other members.
Hey Joe, leave these guys alone. It’s fine.
Hey man, we are two and some of our buddies don’t appeared to be showing.
Would you like to join us?
If you don’t leave, I am gonna have to call security.
Okay. Okay. Hmm..... Ok.
Thanks guys. May next year, right?
Jeff, come on. Come on buddy.
-Thanks. -Alright.
Come on Jeff, don’t think it's not like you haven't seen it before.
How can you stand living in a world where everybody is so ignorant.
Everybody is not.
You saw the golfers back there. They want to back for me.
- My life is full of people like that. - That is what my experience.
Well, that’s because you’re always getting into fight taken up for me.
You and mom. You’ve always been there for me, and my tics.
- You know what? - What?
You are getting the tics. Be off. Oh Ye?
-First in car. - What? Hey, Trickster.
Jeff’s visit did give a break for my worries.
And right after he left I got call from the school.
The principal wanted to see me in his office....
.....just like old times.
Pretty noisy, huh?
And yet somehow the kids manage.
Don’t they?
Yes they do.
They do.
Hillary and I discussed you with the teachers.
And we talked about how proud we are of teaching our kinds...
to never let anything.. hold them back in life.
And Hillary said if we gonna talk the talk,.....
..we need to walk to walk.
She's waiting for show you your classroom.
HE LAUGHS
Welcome.
The 2nd grade is overcrowded so we have to create a new class.
Your kids are being taken out of other room so some of them might be a little confused.
They have already been school for three weeks.
There is a students` register.
The fun starts on Monday, Brad. Let me know is there anything you need.
I need everything.
I looked down that register
like I was announcing the starting line up for All Star Baseball.
- Hillary, this is ... thank you ... - Hey! We thought you might need these.
Hey everybody, bring them in.
Just put them down anywhere. We will get them arranged.
Let me help you with that, thank you.
Welcome to Mountain View.
Yeah, Mom is phenomenal but you know it take me so long to get here.
So I remind myself that I am just at the beginning.
Honey, that is .....
..that is...wonderful news.
- That’s wonderful. - Yes, Mom it is absolutely wonderful.
But you know they are giving me a contract for year. Okay.
So I have to prove to them that they made the right choice.
Honey listen, take a moment to enjoy this.
Oh my God.. oh my..
Did you call your father? He is gonna be so proud of you
I will mom.
But you know right now I literally have about
two weeks of preparation doing about two days.
And you know, now I have job I get to really...
..seriously start working getting my Master Degree
Okay, one thing at a time, alright?
Listen, are there any cute teacher at that school?
- Mom? - I want you to be happy.
Okay, alright, yes.. don’t worry. I am working in that too.
I get to go. Good-bye.
You must be Brad.
You must be Nancy
- Hi, I am Brad. - I know.
Right of course. I got some whole nervous, you please.
This is my first time on a computer dating so.
Okay...me too.
My mom thinks it is dangerous.
Well, Yeah. I mean you never know what kind of weird you might meet.
Quite, You look pretty normal so...
Good I am quite.
Actually you’re much better than normal.
Thank you.
So.. Aa....
...I guess we’re supposed to tell each other lives stories or?
Um.. Okay. did.. did..you?
Do you think to get a cup of coffee first
- Cup of coffee. - Yeah.
- Right. Of course. Come in. - Thank you
- Do you wanna like a Muffin? - I am on a diet.
I would love a muffin.
My roommate is driving me absolutely crazy.
She never makes your bed’s skirts. Clothes everywhere.
She always blasts in her music
Night and day. But, of course. whenever I want to listen my music she always.......
...says "you need to keep it down".
So what kind of music do you listen to.
Well..I’m... mostly old things.
Especially Sting, I love Sting, Madonna, Bon Jovi...
- Vanilla Ice... - Not even Milli Vanilli?
I love Milli Vanilli.
Really?
Yes. You too?
We got be the only two people on earth that loved Milli Vanilli.
Oh, I had a really nice time, thank you.
I shouldn’t have that Muffin. But....
- I really enjoyed meeting you. - Yeah, me too.
Okay. Well, thanks again Brad.
I cann`t believe you. You said she was perfect.
She was perfect and I don’t wanna ruin it.
Oh, by asking to see her again?
Oh! Right Second date Syndrome.
- So that can be your life? - Nothing but first time on a date.
How do you expect to have a relationship?
May be I don’t.
"Babe, don't be shy When you're holding my hand"
"Cause this time goes back You got to understand it's you."
"Ba, ba, ba, baby in your eyes I see it so clearly."
"that our love, it's so strong And you never go wrong."
"I got the best for you."
"So I'm waiting down if you need someone Baby call my line Call me anytime"
"I'll be there for you you you."
"I've been searching high high high."
"I've been searching low."
"Ba ba ba ba ba baby...."
"Don't forget my number number..."
Come on in. Get in there. Come on in.
Weirdo!
Did your teacher warn you that Mr. Cohen makes funny noises.
Yes........
- She said you have Tu....Tour.... - Tourette Syndrome.
Okay, anything you wanna know about it I want you to ask.
Yes.
Is it catching?
No. Absolutely not. You have to be born with it.
Like I was
Hm...
Don’t that hurt?
Well sometimes. When my neck jerks. But the noises do not hurt at all.
These are great questions. Keep it coming.
It is okay to ask me anything...
....about Tourette.
Yes.
Can you go to movies?
Yes, I can go to movies but sometimes I get kicked out.
And that makes me sad.
What’s the bunny’s name?
Wa ... Wa ... Waffle.
Wa..wa..waffle?
His name is just Waffle.
Alright guys.
Any more questions about Tourette?
Anyone.
Are they ever gonna make you cured Mr. Cohen?
Well, right now there is no medicine that can cure Tourette.
But its okay.
Because I’ve learnt to accept it and I don’t let it ruin my life.
Aha....
What can you do? Like...
...can you not eat?
Oho.. I can eat. Okay I eat a lot in fact.
I can do anything that anybody else can do. Except there is.......
....one thing that Mr. Cohen can never do.
- What? What is it? - No I can not..No I just cann`t...
- No... - Come on tell us. Tell us.
Yeah, Tell us....
Mr. Cohen can never play.....
....Hide and Go Seek.
Why cann`t you play Hide and Seek?
Because they hear him, stupid.
Well that’s the right answer but its a wrong word.....
...because there won’t be any name coining in Mr.Cohen`s class.
Excuse me where are you going?
To bathroom.
- And what’s your name? - Thomas
Well Thomas, if you wanna leave your seat you have to ask for permission.
Weirdo.
- Bye Mr. Cohen. - By Calvin.
- Bye Mr. Cohen. - Oh.. Bye Heather.
I’ll see you tomorrow.
- I really like your class Mr. Cohen. - Oh.. Thank you Amanda.
- How are you doing Mr. Wright? - I am fine.
Four eyes! Four eyes!
Can you leave me alone?
Eli, Thomas, which one of you guys thinks that you can help me? Huh?
I can.... I can....
Alright. who will decide. I need to get this ball to put in that bin,
Why don't you guys shoot for it?
Rock, paper, scissors, sheet.
Alright Eli You win today.
I’m leaving....
It’s okay Thomas you can help him
Sorry, I stuck you with Thomas. He was making my class impossible.
He’s got a whole out there problem.
ADD, ADHD, OCD.
If you want my advice, send him to special classes.
I cann`t.... I cann`t do that.
See how you feel after it crashes some of your classes.
I will be alright.
I just need to get set off.
I can't wait for tomorrow.
Okay.
You make more noise than my air horn.
Sounds like you get to have a case of Tourette.
I am just kidding with you, son.
I got a dispatcher with Tourette.
If you ever need any crop country all in
Just call for Maxine.
Hey! Um.. Do you have the card?
I was not serious, son.
Unless you are in the ship business.
No I teach in 2nd grade.
- Here is the card. - Alright.
Maxine gave me a great idea for geography lesson.
- Thank you so much, Maxine. - You’re welcome.
Safe trucking.
I found myself focusing and teaching all the time.
Well... Almost.
- You know I’ve just realized. - What?
All ducks have Tourette.
Why is that?
I do not know. But birds have feather.
- So it doesn’t bother you . Does it? - What?
You know what. My Tourette...my noises.
Not when I compare them to the noises other guys make.
You know like braggers, talkers,
You know,like ego centric humor challenged idiots....
Seriously you know it does not bother me at all.
Thanks to keep me laughing.
Well, don’t say that. You know how I get under pressure.
Oh! I’m sorry.
Dad always said I gonna marry somebody who made me laugh.
You know that is anything to do with.. with anything.
Say something
Quack!
Hey! Don’t laugh I was just doing a serious Quack.
I got you, Love.
- Mr.Cohen...... - Hey....
My mom said to ask if it is okay.
It is ok, Heather.
If I give this to Waffle.
You tell your mom that I said that’s fine. Okay?
- Did he say okay? - Ya..
Well, then okay.
- I love you. - Love you too.
........today. Okay? Okay.
- I will see you right after school. - Okay. Bye Bye!
Are you fine? Ya.....
Amanda, is everything alright?
I wanna be in your class, Mr. Cohen.
You are in my class, Amanda.
No, she made them take me out.
We’ll see after school honey. Okay?
Not fair.
Is everything okay? I am Amanda`s teacher Mr. Cohen
- We met yesterday. - I know I know that
There is nothing wrong. I just have to do what’s right for my daughter.
Come on Amanda.
Come on.
He is concerned about Amanda`s ability to concentrate.
You just thought that you would make a little hard effort.
Can you just give me a chance?
We’ve only just started.
-I pointed that out. - And..?
He said he is sympathetic but that...Amanda needs..
....yes he put it, a normal teacher.
Don’t take it too hard, Brad.
Parents are the hardest part of the job.
Alright, who can tell me the names of the capital
Maxine in her big red truck that can pass through?
Anybody?
Only hands!
Excuse me....Excuse me....
Aaa..What shall I choose?
I don’t know ........
Heather.
Atlanta, Nashville ... Hmm..Springfield??
That’s` great because lot of people think it’s is Chicago
.. and this is Springfield. Right?
No........!
That is Indianapolis.
Oh! That’s right. I was thinking this is Springfield.
No........!
That’s Columbus, Springfield is over there Mr. Cohen.
Where is it? Eli over here?
No.......
Where is Springfield?
I don’t know. You guys get to point it out for me.
Point it out.....Point it out....
I..I don’t feel it’s there.
Aah... I see it.
You tell me this is Springfield. Right?
Yes..........
You do not have permission to leave. Sit Thomas.
That’s right Mr. Cohen has eyes in the back with head. Go back and sit down please.
And next time ask.
I need sharpen my pencil.
Now Thomas......
Alright now where is Maxine in her Big Red truck gonna be on Tuesday?
See you quite early tomorrow, David.
Alright.
Hey! Remember to walk.
I really like your hat, Mr. Cohen.
Oh! Thank you, Heather. I like your hair.
It’s so short because of medicines.
Goodbye.
Hi, Honey!
Hi, Mom!
Can you wait right here for just a minute?
- Sure. - Okay.
- Hey! I’m..There is something I want to tell you..
- I think I know. - Yea.
We were reluctant to tell you first.
Of course it was only a matter time before chemo came up. So......
Is that...she gonna be okay?
Um.. Heather just loves your class.
She cann`t wait to get to school everyday.
I’d be grateful if you keep her secret a little longer.
I just don’t wanna to be...
Ya....
Thanks.
- Bye Barbie girl. - lets go.
Bye.
- How about ... ice cream? - Yea....
Okay.
Hello! What do you think. what do you think.
- I already have that one. - What?
But looks great.
Hey, What’s wrong?
Oh!.. Nothing... I’m just focusing on school stuff.
- Will you focus on me for a minute? - Sorry.
Hey... Try this one.. that will make feel better.
- Ya.. - Okay.
Yes... Yes.
- Really? - Oh my goodness this suits you.
More than you know.
I have.....
decided, that time...
....to go for Master Degree.
Wow
Wow! That’s mean... you’re going away?
No. I
Anyhow I have to pass the entrance test to Graduate School first. So......
Oh! Isn’t that like the S. A. T.?
Do you have to take that in a big room, with a lot of people....
- Yea, they said to have a room for myself. - Good.
The Tourette does have its privileges.
Will it bother if I do go away.
Of course Are you kidding?
- Come here I wanna show you something. - Crazy.
Next...
- Hey! Aaa....... Brad Cohen. - Brad Cohen?
Here's Mr. Cohen. Alright I need you to take his package
..and I need to go right in there.
I am supposed to have special accommodations.
I don’t have any notation of that tested under the same conditions today.
Okay, yea, But I called and they said.......
...they said I could have a space my self.
You know what I need to talk to the Minister about that...
his office is right over there.
- I cann`t make an exception. - Okay.
For what I set off that way?
They promised, and I have right to Special Testing in accommodations.
Listen, I am sorry about your disability but there isn’t anything that I can do.
If you wanna take the test go in there now.
Look at me.
How could anybody pass and concentrate by me in that room.
Listen, I have to start the exam now.
Do you need me to call your doctor?
Is there anyone who could call for help?
Brad, calm down. I cannot understand you.
What they said you can take alone?
Okay. Alright, no problem
- I will be right there. - Did something happen?
You can take the test. And you have a room to yourself.
What did you say?
The magic words.
I get to get work.
- Hey Dad! - Yea.
Thanks.
Good luck on the test.
As it turned out I needed more than just Dad’s good luck.
I needed time.
With the clock and my Tourette ticking away
I fail to get all the way through the test.
Good job guys. Thomas I am so proud of you.
Thank you Mr. Cohen.
- Wow! Look at that turkey Heather. - Thank you
So... Are you gonna have big things giving this year
Aha.. Mom says all my grandparents get to come.
Well, that sounds special.
Except when they cry. They try to hide it but I always see them.
Can I paint Waffle?
You bear. You can paint Waffle.
Are you gonna have good times giving Mr. Cohen?
Yes, I am. Me and Waffle are going to take a little trip to see my mom and St. Louis.
- I know where that is? - Oh! Yea!
Well, that is super, Heather.
That is exactly where it is. Now do me a favour. Will you?
And I’m gonna trust you to take good care of my friend Waffle.
- Alright? - Sure.
And I will be right back.
Hi Amanda. Shouldn’t you be in your class?
Alright. Come on. I walk you to your room.
Why cann`t I be in your class Mr. Cohen?
Well, your father has to do was best for you Amanda.
And you know what you’ve got a great teacher.
Okay see you later Mr. Cohen.
Where did you learn those words, Thomas?
You know, you’re not supposed to leave the class without asking.
Well, clean that up
And then.. you are on detention.... no recess.
For you do get an A in spelling.
You cann`t read it, if you don’t open it, Thomas
I hate reading.
- So do I. - You too?
Yea, reading is hard for me.
It’s not hard for you. You are a teacher.
Do you wanna bet? Lets play a game.
You be Mr, Cohen, trying to read and I will be Tourette Syndrome.
Okay?
Read this page.
Once upon a time....
Keep reading.
- Upon a time there was a ......pica.. - Difficult little bit?
Alright keep reading.
- There was a..... - Hey...... Thomas
Alright that’s hard. Isn’t it? That’s hard to concentrate.
That’s how hard reading is for me.
Is not that hard for you? Is it?
No. It`s easy for me. But how can you be a teacher if you hate books?
Hate books?
I don’t hate books. Everything in the world is in books.
I just have to work extra hard to get it out
But I am not gonna give up, buddy. Okay?
And I’m not let you give yourself. Now keep reading. Right here.
- Once upon a time there was a magi... - M A G I C I A N
A magician who knew a small boy
A small boy who.... a big sword of a big rock.
Weird. Why would be a sword in a rock?
Well, I don’t know but.. if you keep reading you might just find out.
The magician told the small boy..
that who ever could pull this sword out of the rock...
...would be the true king.
Cool!
Keep going. What happens next?
Love will see you through.
I've been searching high
I've been searching low
I want to spend spend my life with you....
Ba ba ba ba ba ba ba ba
- Aye, What’s wrong? - So nervous.
What’s there to be nervous about? You just getting meet my mom.
- Thank You. That is helpful. - And Jeff.
And my aunts and uncles.
And anybody I’ve ever loved in my entire life.
Oh God!
Prepare yourself this is big.
That’s right. Prepare yourself.
Oh! you here. Oh ...Hi... I cann`t believe my....
You're prettier than I thought.
Brad told me so much about you Ms. Cohen
Oh Ellen that’s what more than he tells me about you.
What? I told you about Nancy
Oh he never tell me the real stuff. come on Nancy
- Bo Bo get the bag, honey. - Yes, Bo Bo get off that.
So are you exhausted?
Not much. because we had pedicure point in an hour.
This is Nancy, gorgeous, how are you about?
It’s Nancy. It’s one of the person..
Mom’s gonna little bit overwhelming making Nancy feel like family.
Is that possibility of being family?
I don’t know.. I mean. You know.....
I know but I don’t... I know...I know....
Oh! I am serious. Did she meet Dad?
- No... No...No... - Oh! what are you waiting for?
Hey? Back off. Will you?
He ended up falling that, and hit his head straight against the fence.
There was a bruise.
Will you excuse me. Nancy needs in the kitchen and it will take just one second
- I go to the kitchen.
Are you rescuing me again? I don’t need rescuing.
I do.
Whats` going on?
How is your pedicure?
If you’re wondering when your mom and I talked about
I talked about you and us.
Something wrong?
I am just wondering if I told you......
I love you.
I mean.. it just scares me...
I never thought about it before...
...neither they had think about it.
Look Brad.
She understands about your noises she doesn’t care.
You know. You would make her happy. She told me that.
Brad, you make her laugh
Of what about one day when she stops laughing.
What of one day...
...she gets fade off...
.....of living with someone who...
I don’t wanna hurt her, Mom.
Maybe you do not wanna get hurt.
The only thing that can hurt either of you.
As if you that Tourette drive her away from you.
If you let him win.
Heather’s mother had called to say
Heather was no longer able to attend school.
So the class all pitched in cheer her up.
Oh wow look at this table.
Looks very good.
How they looks great over here.
The news we all had been ..came few weeks later
- Hey? whats up Henry? - Hi Mr. Cohen.
Hi.
- Hey! Hello Mr. Cohen.
- Hey Mr. Cohen. - What’s up Kevin.
These are my grandparents, Jane and Charley.
Sir, they about to start the sermons.
You go ahead.
Mr. Cohen.
why aren’t you coming in?
I am sorry.
I thought I could but I...
I think I will be too disrupted
You made such a huge difference in Heather’s life.
You were her favorite teacher.
Please don’t leave without... about her.
Okay, Thomas, what is your team’s word?
Weird.
Weird?
Anybody not in Thomas’s team know what that word mean?
Strange. Creepy. Scary
Very good.
Who can use the word 'Weird' in a sentence?
- Me...Me...Me..... - 25, 30, 35, 40 ... takes it 50, Galen!
I like weird movies.
Sorry Mr. Cohen. I know you can not go to the movies because it could take from there.
Well that’s ok Galen.
Boom! Because I can rent movies, and I also like weird movies.
So weird is a good word. Right?
But what if someone comes up to you and says
"Hey! you.Yea I’m talking to you, you weird"
- Is it still a good word? - No.....
What's that? Hey come on.
Okay everyone stay in your seat.
It’s Maxine in Big Red.
Mr. Cohen, can we go to see.
Okay. But everyone inside voices
Everyone line about the door and no running.
You got it. Yea exactly.
Eli, get in there. Alright be careful.
What do you think about
Eli, what I tell you? Alright, No blowing horn.
Or everyone will have to get down.
Sorry Maxine.
That’s alright. Kids will be kids.
Yes. Yea..Yea they are well.
I like Nancy.
She reminds me your mom
I don’t look anything alike.
I don’t talk about look. I’m talking about that.....
...spark, you know, spirit that..a genius require.
How is your school?
You know, you get more books than book cases, roof leaks
There are many teachers with lot more experience for me.
I am prouding you regardless.
Doesn’t feel that way.
Why do I feel that you feel embarrass about me.
And it’s okay that you admit it.
- Are you trying to start a discussion? - No...No.No..
But you know we `er talking... And its good lets talk.
I have always been embarrassment to you.
Even when you used to come visit me you used to scold among others and used to quick my way.
You have never been able to accept it.
You `re right.
It is tough to be with you sometimes.
I hated when we go to restaurant and people give you looks
Sometimes I wanna just.....
...I just feel so helpless.
You know I always tried to fix things.
But the one thing I could never fix. that one thing is hurting you more.
It doesn’t leave fixing.
Nobody can fix it.
I know.....I know..
But...... may be......
...it’s my fault.
May be I gave it to you.
Come on guys, we only got 2 minutes closing, hurry up back there.
Stand to the side, Stand to the side. what I tell you ?
Guys in the back, come on hurry up.
Dad, what are you doing here?
Son you needed book shelves. Didn’t you?
Your father had built this new book shelves for the library.
Things are slow at the office.
This way gentlemen.
Oh! I got you some for your collection.
Put it on Mr. Cohen.
A hard hat for an extremely hard Head
Hey class that’s my Dad.
- Hi Mr, Cohen. - Hi.
Come on.
Hillary didn’t say what this was about.
No idea.
We were in recess and she said she needs see you in the classroom.
I think that might be about next year.
Here it is
Brad, will you come over here a minute please.
Hillary has got an announcement to make.
Some of you may have noticed an observer hanging around school for last few weeks.
Well, he was here to assess one of our teachers
Mr. Cohen.
And I am here to announce that our own Brad Cohen
..has been chosen for amongst all the new educators in The State of Georgia.....
..to be Sallie Mae`s first year Teacher of the Year.
As I looked at my students I felt like a kid inside
Because children look at life differently than most adults.
They see the world and say I will. Not I cann`t.
And so did I.
This shirt is too tight that label appearing on my necks.
I can make up the label
I don’t understand why you’re so nervous about.
You face crowd everyday.
Well, these aren’t 2nd graders, you know.
Oh! man I wish I was invisible.
That's something that you never have to worry.
Be still....Be still.....
I love you.
Come on Bo Bo you can get through this.
Don’t worry, he’s gonna get through it.
The noise you just heard is Tourette Syndrome.
I have been living with since six years old.
I’m standing up here today..
.. because the love and support of lot of people put me up here.
My family....
My school family.....
My students and all my friends
I owe this toward all of them.
But I also owe it to the toughest and most dedicated teacher I ever had...
My constant companion my Tourette.
Now some of you may think that’s pretty weird to thank Disability
..and calling it a Great Teacher that’s really weird.
What can I possibly learn from Disability?
Yes Galen.
You learned to keep going.
- Eli? - You learned not to leave that stops you
Yes Thomas.
You learned not to let it win.
That’s right.
Coping with my Tourette taught me the most valuable lesson..
...that anyone could ever learn and that is.
..To never let anything stop you from chasing your dream.
From working.
While playing
While falling in love.
That’s right.
Coping with my Tourette taught me the most valuable lesson that..
Yes, Thomas.
Can you bring the award to show and tell on Monday.
You bet.