Middle school teacher grieving on son’s first death anniversary breaks down when students give her heartfelt surprise

A person might receive compassion from the most unlikely places on some days, helping them heal from their pain. A middle school teacher received such a surprise from her students on her son's first death anniversary and she was in tears because of the thoughtful gesture. The woman was really glad to see such kindness and compassion in her young students and shared a video of the performance the choir had put up on TikTok. The teacher, Mindy, goes by @mindykcook on TikTok.

"Tomorrow is the 1st anniversary of the death of my son, Winston," the choir teacher wrote. "At the end of the day today, my middle school choir students surprised me with this." The woman entered a dark room that had her son's name written on the floor with lights. Her choir students were standing behind it and were ready to sing for her. The whole event was organized with the help of PE teacher, who also happened to be the woman's best friend. "I am absolutely floored by their compassion and empathy," Mindy expressed. "It was a surreal feeling looking at all of these students that I teach every day showing me so much love." The woman pointed out that she loved each kid a lot and was proud to call them hers.

"Don't let anyone ever tell you that middle school children aren't capable of empathy and compassion," the text overlay read as the teacher started crying while listening to her students. The kids sang "Stand by Me" by Ben E. King. The kids also made posters for the teacher in the memory of her son. The caption of her post read, "All this week I have just been trying to make it through, taking it easy in my classes to not emotionally overwhelm myself." She told her students what the week meant to her and told them she wouldn't be in school on Friday. "They did so good at keeping a secret, I had absolutely no idea they were planning this behind my back!" she exclaimed. "I am so blessed to teach such amazing kids, my heart was so full after this!"

Everyone who watched the clip was moved by it. @tasha_jeanette wrote, "My daughter is a member of your chorus and she told me what they had been practicing for you and I cried every single day!" @narklizard commented, "To mother comes in many forms, you have guided so much love in these children's lives. thank you for sharing this moment with us all."

@taysface28 remarked, "TikTok needs to have a 'Warning, this will make you cry instantly' message. This is so beautiful. I am so sorry for your loss. Bless these babies." @boytwins13 shared, "This just shows you make a difference to them every day and they just want to show you they love you and support you." Another user expressed, "Been 6 years since my son Samuel passed and each day I get up and I celebrate the time I had him with me and he’s still with me in spirit. Stay strong. Praying for you."

You can follow Mindy (@mindykcook) on TikTok for more lifestyle content.