Unwavering Dedication of a Teacher. Our society’s unsung heroes are the teachers. They dedicate their entire lives to educating and influencing younger generations, frequently going above and beyond what is required of them. They encourage development and learning in their students by acting as mentors and allies. Jonathan Oliver, a physical education instructor at WG Nunn Elementary in Valdosta, Georgia, is an example of a truly exceptional teacher.
A Request You Didn’t Expect. Coach Oliver received recognition recently for a deed that touched many people’s hearts. Oliver was playing basketball when Kristen Paulk, a kindergartener on his team, came up to him and asked for assistance putting her hair up in a ponytail. Coach Oliver arranged Kristen’s braids skillfully away from her face as he knelt down to meet her at her level on a basketball, without hesitation. He had no idea that this wonderful occasion was being captured on camera. In the words of Kandice Anderson, “When your job goes beyond teaching!”. When another teacher at the school, Kandice Anderson, recorded the heartwarming exchange on video and posted it to YouTube with the caption, “When your job goes beyond teaching!”, the clip quickly gained popularity and attracted the attention of Good Morning America, which resulted in an interview with Coach Oliver, a 34-year-old father of three. A straightforward act of kindness. Coach Oliver maintains his modesty in the face of all the attention. He acknowledges that teachers frequently demonstrate kindness and care. His main objective is to make his students feel at home by providing a supportive and cozy environment. “We [teachers] want to make them feel at home and like they’re enjoying themselves here,”. “, says Jonathan Oliver.