Whether it happens in person or virtually, a surprise from Oprah Winfrey is always welcome! That’s how educators joining the Ron Clark Academy Facebook Live session felt.
According to The Root from around the globe joined the session led by Ron Clark, along with parents who homeschool to discuss tools and tips, build with each other and connect surrounding education in the midst of the pandemic.
Shortly after the call started, Clark announced Winfrey as his special guest, bringing her on to share encouragement and words of advice. “I love teachers, and I think throughout the world a lot of people are appreciating teachers differently now than ever before. Because they’re having to sit at home and do it themselves, they recognize what you have been doing all along,” Winfrey told those tuned in.
In 2017, Winfrey donated $5 million to the academy in celebration of their 10th anniversary. The school is 94% black and has a 100% graduation rate with 90% of their alumni attending college. More than 70,000 educators have been trained in the Ron Clark methodology, according to the website.
Winfrey praised the work they’re doing, continuing to remind the teachers how much they are valued. “I just continue to applaud outstanding, extraordinary, magnified, and magnificent work that you do at RCA. I love this school! It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years. I was here for the first graduation. I wanted to be here to actually mark this moment in time. What it takes to build a school over 10 years, I know,” Winfrey told educators.
More than 18,000 tuned into the live session, surprised by Winfrey’s presence. She ended her remarks asking God to bless all the teachers.
We echo those sentiments.
Thank you for all you’re doing Auntie O!
Photo Courtesy of WSB-TV 2