Teachers are some of the most important people in our community, but they are often not appreciated enough.
It takes a special person to dedicate their life to educating others, serving as role models, giving advice, and mentoring the younger generations.
We often hear stories of teachers going above and beyond to help their students.
One such hero is Jonathan Oliver, a phys-ed teacher at WG Nunn Elementary in Valdosta, Georgia. He was recognized for a kind act towards a kindergartener during a basketball game.
When one of his students needed help, he was happy to assist her.
Kristen Paulk, a kindergartener on Oliver’s basketball team, asked him to help tie her hair back in a ponytail. The coach immediately sprang into action.
He took a knee on a basketball to get down to Kristen’s level and focused on tying her braids back. Unbeknownst to him, he was being recorded.
Kandice Anderson, another teacher at the school, filmed the sweet gesture and posted it on YouTube, where it received heartfelt support from the public.
The title of the viral video read: “When your job goes beyond teaching!”
The video eventually made its way to Good Morning America, who contacted Jonathan Oliver, the 34-year-old father of three, for an interview.
“It was shocking to me that it got that much attention because we all do it,” Oliver told Good Morning America, adding that he didn’t realize he was being filmed.
“We [teachers] want to make them feel like they’re at home and that they enjoy being here,” he added. “We try to love on them as much as possible. To me, it was just a ponytail.”
The caring coach explained that Kristen had asked him for help with putting her hair in a ponytail during a basketball game. He mentioned that his expertise doesn’t go beyond that, even though he often styles his daughter’s hair.
“It was a good thing she asked for a ponytail. Anything else, I’d say, ‘You better ask your mom,’” he joked.
Kristen’s mom, Miyah Cleckley, told Good Morning America that the video really touched her. “I always know that Kristen is in very good hands with him. I thought it was really cute because her father does their hair a lot. We have five girls and one son, so when I’m working, he has to help with their hair.”
This story is just one of many about teachers going above and beyond for their students. They truly are heroes!
What did you think of this sweet story? Let us know in the comments!
