Following 23 years as a teacher, coach and counselor, California educator John Smeby offers us Stories from the Classroom. Set in a city emerging from bankruptcy and still recovering from a 2015 terrorist attack, John uncovers a more human, compassionate side of San Bernardino that many might miss. In this down-to-earth, sometimes heartbreaking and often humorous collection of stories, he recounts both the struggles and victories he found inside the classrooms and hallways of Cajon High School, and beyond. Whether you are (or have ever been) a parent, student or educator, Smeby's journey will resonate with unflinching honesty. The anecdotes and stories he shares offer a unique look inside our educational system, both public and private. A teacher will often see a student seated at a desk. In Stories, John challenges us to look beyond the student, and recognize the human being within.