Jared, has a condition called Williams Syndrome. He asked his teacher, Mrs. Melissa Allen to be his Belle for Halloween. They were truly the prince and the princess at school today. There is not a teacher more kind, thoughtful, loving, empathetic, and who teaches with heart every single day than her. She gave my son a day he will cherish forever. I’m forever grateful for her love and kindness. It does make a difference and it gives me great hope! Here is my earlier post.
There are many lessons to be learned from Beauty and the Beast. Belle was able to see past the outer layer and look inside and see what really counts. As we all know, things and people aren’t always how they appear. True beauty comes from within. Always be kind to others and don’t focus only on yourself. Dare to be different, to be yourself. You don’t have to be perfect. Be what and who God created YOU to be. Don’t let your fears get in the way of new experiences. Have a thirst for knowledge. When Belle taught the Beast to read, what a sweet moment that was. In the end, love will always win. You don’t have to be perfect!
Many of these lessons apply to my sweet boy (except he is beautiful inside and out regardless if he is the Beast or Jared).
“The right one will know all of your weaknesses and never use them against you.”
Now, apply this from a teacher perspective, and there is no quote more perfect. Melissa knows Jared’s strengths and weaknesses just about as well as I know them. She has always been consistent, reliable, empathic, loving, firm, and all the other things a teacher should be no matter the day. When there is a bad moment, she doesn’t forget all of the good moments.
This is a day and a beautiful memory I hope Jared will always cherish! She has made Jared’s Day!
She is an extra special person and teacher, and she makes a difference every day in the lives of our students.
This has to be the best Halloween yet!

Credits: Melissa Hodges


Submitted by: Destiney Spatcher