The School Teacher and the Waif (1912)

The School Teacher and the Waif is a 1912 American silent drama film directed by D. W. Griffith. The film was produced by the Biograph Company and distributed by the General Film Company. Starring Mary Pickford as the waif and Edwin August as the schoolteacher, the film was released by Biograph on June 27, 1912. The story centers on Nora's struggles with loneliness, the hardships she faces at home, and the challenges she encounters at school, including bullying and feelings of humiliation. When a street vendor attempts to take advantage of her vulnerable situation, her teacher intervenes to help. This film marked the second appearance of a 15-year-old stage actress named Ella Hall in a Biograph film. She played one of the young schoolgirls. Her part was uncredited.