In a heartbreaking turn of events, a Texas elementary school teacher whose 2018 video of her first-grade students embracing each other went viral has succumbed to COVID-19 after a two-month struggle. The teacher, Maria Gonzalez, garnered national attention when she shared a delightful clip on social media, showing her students choosing between “good morning” or “goodbye” hugs, high-fives, and fist bumps.
As the new year began amid the ongoing pandemic, news from El Paso painted a somber picture. Maria, who was just 35 years old, spent nine weeks in the hospital following her COVID-19 diagnosis. A GoFundMe campaign was initiated by her family to help cover medical expenses. “She always made an effort to share kindness, whether through notes or simply by reaching out,” said Principal Laura Martinez, reflecting on Maria’s compassionate nature. “She truly embodied love and kindness.”
During remote learning, which began in March, Maria created care packages filled with masks, pencils, and treats for her students. Her principal noted, “That small action touched so many lives.” The warmth displayed in her video resonated widely, amassing over 22 million views. Nick Adkins, co-founder of PinkSocks Life, which promotes compassion through pink socks, admired Maria’s commitment to kindness and provided pink socks for all her students.
Maria was also active in her community, organizing a sock drive for students and staff following the tragic shooting at an El Paso Walmart in 2019. Adkins expressed his gratitude for the legacy she left behind, noting, “She was a bundle of joy and love.” Following her passing, the school administration informed families of her students and initiated the collection of photos and letters to present to her family. Principal Martinez hopes to create a “kindness corner” at the school as a lasting tribute to Maria’s enduring spirit of kindness.
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Summary:
Maria Gonzalez, a beloved Texas teacher known for her heartwarming 2018 video of students hugging, has tragically passed away from COVID-19. Her commitment to kindness and community service left a lasting impact, inspiring many to spread compassion. As her school community remembers her legacy, they plan to honor her spirit of giving and love.