The Hero Interviews – Norm Conard

Norm Conard is the director of the Lowell Milken Center/Irena Sendler Project-Life in a Jar in Kansas. He’s a long time teacher and the man who encouraged four high school students to pursue a project that uncovered the deeds of Irena Sendlerowa during World War II in Poland. He has won numerous awards for his teaching, recently being inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. These are his answers.

Who was your hero as a child and why?

My childhood hero was my mother. She provided guidance for my young life, turned me on to a world of books, nurtured a love of learning and was a beautiful role model. My mother would never let me look down on anyone and constantly reminded me of the equality of human beings. I grew up during the Civil Rights Movement and my mother was always well ahead of her time in understanding what was happening. She was progressive with all social issues.

Who is your hero now and why?

Irena Sendler is and was a woman of courage and valor. She stood up for right and against the evils of the largest event in history, World War II. My personal friendship with her and times spent together, are some of the most precious moments of my life. She reminds me in many ways of my mother. She has also set an example for my students and for modern youth, an example of respect and understanding.