"There are many teachers who think their business dull work, and who regret the necessity which compels them to continue in it. They undertook it only to make a little money, and they leave it, as soon as they can, for some other, and, as they think, more honorable, agreeable and lucrative employment. There are other teachers who live somewhat away from the influences of modern improvements in the science, and who remain content to continue in the old-fashioned track of dull routine. Some of them, however, occasionally complain of the treadmill character of their daily toil, and wish, indefinitely, for some change. A large proportion of our teachers are young and inexperienced. They are earnest and energetic; they are desirous of learning how to accomplish their duties fully and pleasantly; and they are thankful for any instruction in means and methods. This book has been written for these three classes of teachers, and may prove of use to them. It is hoped, also, that almost every teacher may find something of value in it." - from the Preface.
Nathaniel William Taylor Root, American educator and clergyman (1829-1872). He received the honorary degree of M.A. from Yale in 1864. After leaving college he spent several years in teaching in New Haven and elsewhere. He afterwards pursued theological studies in the Berkeley Divinity School, in Middletown, Conn., and was ordained Deacon by Bishop Williams, at Middletown, May 25th, 1859. A year later he removed to Rhode Island, where he was advanced to the priesthood, and took charge of the parish of Lonsdale. This charge he relinquished in May, 1861, to become chaplain of the Ninth Regiment of R. I. Volunteers. After three months' service, he returned to his parish, and early in 1865 returned to Newtown, L. I., as rector of the Episcopal Church. This charge he resigned in 1868, and he then went to Portland, Me., where he served as rector of St. Paul's Church until his death, of small-pox, Dec. 14th, 1872. A few months previous to his death he was appointed instructor in drawing in Bowdoin College.
- from "Obituary Record of Graduates" published by Yale University in 1880.
