But Hopkins attended what could truly be called Capital High School in Boise. The two-story building sat exactly where the state capitol building sits today. She later graduated from high school in Medford, Ore., in a class of 250 students. While her teachers tried to instill in her the values of science and English, she found herself straying toward subjects like debate and declamation. That was always my thing.
Debate continues to be offered at some schools today.
Declamation contests involved students giving memorized recitations. Brock didn't memorize solely for competitions, though. While larger schools offered a full curriculum and even extra-curricular activities, others were struggling just to stay open. Then there wouldn't be a teacher. She doesn't remember the reasons for all the teachers' early departures, but she does remember when her mother's cousin came to visit and decided to stay and try teaching.