Jean-Baptiste de La Salle

Jean-Baptiste de La Salle (pronounced; English: John Baptist de La Salle; 30 April 1651 – 7 April 1719) was a French priest, educational reformer, and founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. He is a saint of the Catholic Church and the patron saint for teachers of youth.

La Salle dedicated much of his life to the education of poor children in France; in doing so, he started many lasting educational practices.