Saint John Baptist de La Salle was a French priest born in 1651, known for founding the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. He dedicated his life to improving education for poor children in France. His innovative teaching methods emphasized practical learning and the importance of teachers. De La Salle established the first modern school system and introduced the use of the vernacular language in education, making learning more accessible. He was canonized as a saint in 1900 and is celebrated as the patron saint of teachers, with his feast day observed on April 7.