Up the Down Staircase
Is another film made in this same era about high school, starring Sandy Dennis.
It was good, too...
I still love the song from this movie, and Lulu's singing.
Another similar film is Dangerous Minds with Michelle Pfeiffer as a teacher at an inner city school trying to connect with HER students.
shareTwo of my favorites in this genres are Stand and Deliver (Edward James Olmos) and Lean On Me (Morgan Freeman).
And, of course, Mr. Holland's Opus. Although that was more centered on Richard Dryfuss realizing his impact he had on the kids, whereas the first two I mentioned were the more directed toward the lead character helping the students realize their own self worth, allowing them to grow intellectually. I think Mr. Holland brought out the best in the students, but still felt he never reached his own potential.
Gee, I may have to dig a few of these out of my DVD collection!