Prepare yourself—you’re going to need some tissues for this heartwarming video showcasing teachers expressing just how special each student is to them. In a touching initiative called the Positivity Project, a group of educators from Oak Park High School in Kansas City, Missouri, took it upon themselves to let students know that they inspire their teachers to come to school every day.
Heartfelt Messages from Teachers
At the start of the video, you hear teacher Alex Johnson sharing with a student, “You motivate me to be a better educator, and I truly look forward to seeing you in class. Keep shining!” Johnson, who oversees the school’s program for at-risk students, encouraged her colleagues to take a moment to acknowledge the impact their students have on their lives. “Last spring, we had students write letters of appreciation to their teachers, and I thought, why not turn the tables?” Johnson explained in an interview. “We genuinely care, but sometimes students aren’t aware of that.”
Initial Reactions from Students
Initially, when students were called out of class, they were filled with anxiety—thinking they might be in trouble. “They all had that worried expression, asking if they had missed an assignment,” Johnson recalled. “But we reassured them, ‘No, just wait and listen.’” She noted that interactions between teachers and students often feel negative, which led her to want to create a more uplifting experience.
Priceless Reactions
The students’ reactions were priceless as their teachers conveyed heartfelt messages of appreciation. The expressions of relief, surprise, and joy were palpable, with some students even moved to tears. This project, which spanned about three weeks, proved to be a rewarding experience for both students and teachers. “Afterward, teachers shared how meaningful it was, saying things like, ‘That made my day!’” Johnson shared.
Inspiring Other Educators
The Oak Park staff decided to share the video online in hopes of inspiring other educators to foster strong relationships with their students. With the video going viral and racking up nearly 200,000 shares on Facebook, it’s clear that this message of positivity resonates widely. “The key takeaway is to maintain a positive attitude wherever you go,” Johnson advised. “A simple smile and a compliment can go a long way.”
Additional Resources
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Conclusion
In summary, the Positivity Project at Oak Park High School is a beautiful reminder of the profound impact that appreciation and encouragement can have on students. By taking the time to recognize each student’s unique contributions, teachers can foster an environment where students feel valued and inspired.