Ms. Balogh is a first-year science teacher and completely inexperienced with South Bronx students-and it shows. In the first few months, she has trouble controlling her class’ behavior-one student directs a racist remark at her (Ms. Balogh is a white female) and another angrily slams her against a door. Refusing to give up, Ms. Balogh remains utterly committed to her students, cultivating special relationships with several students with troubled families and poor work habits. By year’s end, however, resource limits, conflicts with Mr. Tom, and a long commute take their toll on Ms. Balogh.