It’s the kind of heartwarming story that lets you know the Warriors are really just a bunch of cuddly and loving teddy bears. It was mid-December and the winter break was right around the corner and the holiday spirit at North Atlanta was shining throughout the 11 floors. 

And on a special Friday – specifically Dec. 10 – English-Language Arts instructor Akisha Ray was hit with a bushel of love and kindness right before the semester wrapped up. Spirits were bright when Ray’s 1B students – in her British Lit class – went the extra mile to surprise her. Together they planned on getting her a bouquet of flowers, her favorite jalapeno flavored chips, and a sentimental card to show how much they truly appreciate her being their teacher. When the day came, Ray had no idea about what they had in store, especially given how well the students covered their tracks. 

The genesis of the goodwill stemmed from students sensing that their beloved teacher was going through some personal challenges. The beloved educator – and teacher of the year in 2017-18 – had to process the difficult reality that her mother had suddenly passed in December. Without going into specifics, Ray announced to the class that she was going through a lot of difficult life circumstances. Moved by their compassion for her, Ray decided to give her students a treat for their patience and cooperation. The enthusiastically received gift was a variety of Krispy Kreme doughnuts and orange juice to wash it all down. “I felt like the class was so patient and I wanted to show them my gratitude,” said Ray.

  Seniors Tenai Phillips, Jamaya Walker and Cepeda Kilgore were just a few of the students to notice that Ray might’ve been contending with some of life’s harder circumstances. They were moved by compassion for a teacher they hold dear. What’s become clear to those in the class is that there’s been considerable bonding and the class – wholly composed of seniors – is starting to be more like a family than a class.  

On the moment of the surprise, an overwhelmed Ray said she emphatically felt the love of her students. “You know, there are some hard days in this world, but there are always those signs that let you know there is love out there,” an appreciative Ray said. “I can’t say how much I love these kids.” 

Ray’s class felt great sorry for their teacher upon learning of her mother’s sudden passing. So they purposed in their hearts to let her know she was not alone in her grief. It was a classic story of love abounding among the 11 stories. Turns out that there are plenty of Warriors who have hearts of gold.