Educators are vital pillars of our community, yet their contributions are often underestimated. It takes a special person to dedicate themselves to teaching, mentoring and motivating young minds.
Jonathan Oliver, a physical education teacher at WG Nunn Elementary in Valdosta, Georgia, is one example of this commitment. He recently earned recognition for a touching moment of kindness during a children’s basketball game.
When kindergarten teacher Kristen Paulk asked for help with her ponytail, Oliver didn’t hesitate. He knelt on a basketball to be at eye level with her and carefully tied her pigtails to make sure her hair didn’t fall into her face. This tender gesture, captured on video, was shared on YouTube by Kandice Anderson, a fellow teacher
The video, aptly titled “When Your Job Goes Beyond Teaching!” quickly went viral and captured the hearts of many. It eventually caught the attention of Good Morning America, which interviewed the 34-year-old father of three.
“I was surprised by the attention because that’s exactly what we do,” Oliver told Good Morning America, unaware of the recording. “We want students to feel at home and loved. For me, wearing a ponytail just helped.”
Oliver mentioned that while Kristen’s request was for a ponytail, his hairstyling expertise was otherwise quite limited. “If she had asked for something else, I would have said, ‘You better ask your mom,’” he joked.
Kristen’s mother, Miyah Cleckley, expressed her appreciation for Oliver’s gesture. “I always know that Kristen is in excellent hands with him. It was especially touching because my husband helps us a lot with our daughters’ hair, as we have five girls and a son.”
There are many stories of teachers going the extra mile, and Jonathan Oliver’s story is a beautiful example of everyday heroes in education.
We would love to hear your thoughts on this touching story, share them in the comments!
If Yоu Wаit Fоr Аngеls Rеаd Тhоsе Тhings
If you’re waiting for Jesus’ angels, you might pray or say something likе:
“Heavenly Father, as I wait for the angels of Jesus, I place my trust in your divine protection and guidance. Surround me with your holy presence and send forth your angels to watch over me and my loved ones. Grant me peace and assurance in the knowledge that your heavenly messengers are at work, carrying out your will and ministering to those in need. Help me to remain faithful and patient as I await the manifestation of your divine intervention. Amen.”
This prayer acknowledges the belief in the protection and assistance of angels sent by Jesus, while also affirming trust in God’s sovereignty and timing. It seeks comfort and reassurance in the presence of divine beings and invites their help and support during times of waiting and uncertainty.
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