Catherine Borek is a 29-year veteran English and Theatre Arts teacher at Dominguez High School in Compton, California, and a California Teacher of the Year in 2023. As Ms. Borek describes her approach to teaching, host Ken Futernick asks what it’s like when former students come back and offer words of appreciation. Unbeknownst to Ms. Borek, one such student, Mariela Rojas, is waiting in the wings to do just that.

A former student’s surprise tribute to her teacher ignites a movement of gratitude for educators’ life-changing impact.

Bruce Stewart, a champion for social justice and education, hears a heartfelt tribute from a former student on his transformative legacy.

After 20 years as a teacher, Jen thanks her 3rd-grade teacher, Jane, who saved her life and inspired her to join the profession.

"Not all heroes wear capes." Watch Caroline's heartfelt tribute to Mr. Ball, her hero teacher—grab a tissue for this one!

When a teacher feels like a mother, one student’s heartfelt “thank you” shows how a few kind words can make all the difference.

Watch the heartfelt moment an 8-year-old and their parent thank a teacher who made 1st grade unforgettable—even during a pandemic.