Curious World Staff
Teachers often go above and beyond to support their students, and Jonathan Oliver, a phys-ed teacher at WG Nunn Elementary in Valdosta, Georgia, proved just that during a recent basketball game.
When kindergartener Kristen Paulk begged Oliver to help pull her hair back, the coach jumped into action. He kneeled on a basketball to reach her level and delicately braided her strands into a ponytail. Kandice Anderson, a fellow teacher, captured the heartwarming moment on camera and later uploaded it on YouTube with the statement, “When your job goes beyond teaching.”
The video quickly went viral, even making its way to Good Morning America, where Oliver, a 34-year-old father of three, was interviewed. “It was shocking that it got so much attention because we all do it,” he said, emphasizing how teachers strive to create a nurturing environment for students.
Kristen’s mother, Miyah Cleckley, was moved by the gesture. “I always know Kristen is in good hands with him,” she added, adding that her husband frequently helps with their children’s hair at home, especially since they have five girls to care for.
This heartwarming act is a reminder of the incredible impact teachers have on their students, both inside and outside the classroom.
