A second grader in Philadelphia learned a valuable lesson in an unexpected way when he called his teacher “old.” His comment sparked a dance battle that captured the hearts of millions.
Teachers hold a special place in our hearts. Their noble profession shapes our minds and character, leaving lasting impressions on us.
Some teachers make an indelible mark, whether through their teaching style, their mannerisms, or particular words they spoke to us.
This story is about such a teacher, Mrs. Laurie, who went beyond her usual role to connect with her student, Ahmad Dennis, in a unique and memorable way.
Ahmad, a student at Deep Roots Charter School, frequently teased his second-grade teacher, Mrs. Regina Laurie, about her age and gray hair.
Mrs. Laurie, a seasoned educator with over 30 years of experience and a bachelor’s degree in dance from Temple University, decided to turn this into a teaching moment.
“He kept telling me, ‘Oh, Mrs. Laurie, you’re old. Look at your (gray) hair.’ So I said to myself, ‘I’m going to challenge this boy to a dance-off. I’m going to dance rings around this boy and he doesn’t even know it yet!'” she explained.
The result was an impromptu “Veggie Dance” battle that went viral on TikTok, attracting close to 20 million views worldwide.
Viewers were surprised by the teacher’s incredible moves with her young student. “Was not expecting that but she indeed DID the veggie dance,” one person commented.
Ahmad himself was stunned, “I never knew she could dance like that. People were saying, ‘They ate that,’ and ‘she ate you up!’,” he admitted.
This viral moment was more than just a fun dance-off; it showcased the deeper values of joy, love, and connection within the school.
“When you come to this school, you feel loved,” said Dean of Students Jigcara Grant. “And we’ll cheer you on no matter what. We spread all of the joy, positivity because we all need it.”
These words were echoed by the school’s CEO and Principal, Lucilla Perry-Edwards, who emphasized the importance of letting children be children.
“A lot of times we push children and we just push books in front of them. Let them be kids,” she said.
The video of the dance battle not only entertained but also inspired other teachers to show their personal side and engage with students in fun, meaningful ways.
“I think that I sort of led the way in terms of having other teachers not be afraid to kick off their shoes and literally just show that you’re also a person behind that role that we have,” Laurie shared.
This story reminds us of the significant role mentors play in our lives. God places parents, teachers, and even strangers to teach us life lessons and shape our character. But they leave us at different intersections of life.
Yet, one mentor remains the same yesterday, today, and forever—Jesus Christ. He not only guides us through life, but also walks with us through any storms in our lives, teaching us to be better people and to shine His light in the lives of others.
Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.“
Mrs. Laurie embodies this verse by showing that teaching is more than academics. It’s about nurturing the whole person, instilling values, and fostering a love for learning.
Just as Mrs. Laurie guided Ahmad through a creative challenge, God guides us through life’s trials and triumphs. He places people in our lives to teach us, support us, and help us grow.
Through these experiences, we learn to trust His guidance and wisdom.
Let us be grateful for the mentors God places in our lives. Let us recognize their value and the lessons they teach. And let us always remember that God is our ultimate mentor.
He guides us with love and wisdom every step of the way.
WATCH: Teacher Stuns Millions with Epic Dance Battle with Student