And these wonderful photos, plucked from the YEP archive, from the 1990s prove just that. They feature teachers at schools, both primary and secondary, across city who were making the news during the decade. They range from new appointments through to charity challenges as well as those moving on or retiring. Spotted anyone who made a difference? READ MORE: 24 famous faces who went to school in Leeds LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
43. Leeds teachers in the 1990s
Head teacher Stuart Tomlinson addresses parent and pupils at Cookridge Primary in January 1999 after learning the school had been saved from closure. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
44. Leeds teachers in the 1990s
Retiring head teacher David Lofthouse with some of his pupils at Horsforth Newlaithes Primary School in July 1997. | Mel Hulme Photo: Mel Hulme
45. Leeds teachers in the 1990s
Come blow your horn. Margaret Smith, left, head of music at Leeds Girls High School and music teacher Katie Staggs who raised money for charity in February 1998 by playing instruments. | Graham Lindley Photo: Graham Lindley
46. Leeds teachers in the 1990s
Rita Samuel, front, head teacher at Royal Park Primary celebrates with staff, parents and other supporters during a party of thanks for saving the school from closure in November 1997. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
47. Leeds teachers in the 1990s
An outdoor reading lesson for Joseph Melia and Phoebe Smith with reception class teacher Gail Bickerdike at Spring Bank Primary in July 1999. Photo: Graham Lindley
48. Leeds teachers in the 1990s
Bruntcliffe's Trevor Perry was named Secondary School teacher of the year in 1999. He is pictured with Norma Machell from Scarcroft Primary in York who was also named best in class. | Bruce Rollinson Photo: Bruce Rollinson