Remote learning can at times be very stressful not only for students and families, but teachers as well. Everyone is trying their best to adapt to this new normal and it has not always been easy. For one teacher, a difficult day turned into a great surprise. 

The child development and Nursery School Teacher at Kearny High, Mrs. Comer, had been having various technical issues one school day. Once 8th period came along, Mrs. Comer thought that there was a glitch, being that all of her students’ cameras were off, and had to join in and out of the meeting. At the time she didn’t think much of it, but her students told her to not leave as they were planning something nice for her. In a moment, all of the students’ cameras turned on and each of them were holding a sentimental sign to show how appreciative they are of her. Mrs. Comer was entirely surprised by this: “My reaction to this special gesture was complete shock. I knew nothing about this going around at the time and I was literally moved to tears.”

This thoughtful surprise by her 8th period class really put everything into perspective. Forming a connection with students can be challenging for teachers especially in this new virtual world: “Many teachers are always wondering if we are connecting enough through virtual teaching. This gesture confirmed to me that me and my students are connecting and that together we can learn on a computer screen. This really confirmed that this challenging day was worth it all!”

TikTok Teacher Surprise