Teacher braced herself as students charged towards her on her farewell — but then witnessed them showing the ‘highest form of respect’
The Formal, held just days before graduation, was all about creating extravagance, celebration, and dancing for the students who are about to complete one venture and move to the next. The class of 2025 at the Brown Plains State High School was set for this event with their ties, suits, gowns, and whatnot. While they had a blast, the students also surprised their longtime coordinator, Mrs. Jovic, with a special dance. The boys and girls quickly came together on the dance floor to render a sacred, respectful, and highest form of gratitude to the teacher who has dedicatedly stood by their side for years. Her reaction sealed the moment of grace.
Mrs. Jovic has been the coordinator for the Year 12 students since they were in the 7th grade. From the bleak COVID times in 2020 when they were just teenagers to the present, where they’re now young men and women, ready to take on the world, Mrs. Jovic has stuck through it all. It was only fitting, then, that the students displayed their thanks in an extraordinary and grand manner. The teacher was standing at the podium, but before she could say anything, one of the students approached her on the stage and erupted into an unexpected traditional dance — the Haka. Led by one of the boys, the others quickly followed, keeping tradition and love in mind.
According to the All Blacks, the Haka comes from the Māori ethos, a dance that represents culture, community, and togetherness. According to their tradition, the dance is done to display passion, vigour, and identity of the culture, but also for a special reason. Among the tribes, it is also performed to welcome visitors and bestow the highest honor on someone. Hoping to offer that prestige to their coordinator, the students practiced and performed the Haka for Mrs. Jovic.
Just as traditionally done, led by the men with women supporting at the back, the male students walked up from their seats to form lines upfront, followed by the young women at the back. They put on an enthusiastic performance, with their focus on their beloved coordinator. The woman was in complete shock as she broke down watching the students display grace, respect, culture, and so much more with their gesture. When they were finished, each of the students went up to her and thanked her with a warm embrace. She went up to the podium, wiping her tears to explain to fellow students and staff what the dance really meant.
“In our culture, we respect each other. We respect our elders, and what they’ve done is the highest form of respect you’ll ever see.” She thanked her students, saying, “It’s actually a great honor to have someone do the Haka for you. So bless you, thank you!” Many Facebook users were touched by the students' gesture and left heartwarming comments. Luci N Guy Richards wrote, “What a beautiful tribute. So much respect not only for the teacher but also for these young adults and their families for instilling these behaviours.” Training Direct Australia added, “Hakas are not just given away… what an honour.” Hope Burley remarked, “Beautiful tribute to a beautiful teacher. Your dedication to this year over the years has been much appreciated, and all the little extras haven’t gone unnoticed, always supporting the kids!”