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Giving Students the World

As a native of Sierra Leone who came to the United States to further her own education, Hilda Taylor believed in exposing her urban elementary school students to a world beyond Washington.

Her success in achieving that goal led Mrs. Taylor to accompany one pupil, Bernard Brown II, on Flight 77 on a field trip to California sponsored by the National Geographic Society. While in the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, the group of was to hike, kayak and work with marine biologists to study oceanic life.

Mrs. Taylor, 58, who taught sixth grade at Madeleine V. Leckie Elementary School, was an avid participant in the society's alliance with schools to promote geography.

"She was very enthusiastic, very dedicated," said Denise Sessoms, the assistant principal. "She was always seeking new and creative learning experiences for her students. Parents looked forward to having their children in her room."

A mother of three, Mrs. Taylor lived in Forestville, Md., and was known for preparing dishes from Sierra Leone for friends.

Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on October 12, 2001.