Chesapeake, Va. - Escorted by G.W. Carver Intermediate's principal, NewsChannel 3's Kurt Williams surprised a special teacher in Chesapeake, Rebecca Karch-Woolbright.
She didn't know what to think. We quickly explained that we'd received an email from Jennifer Manning, the mother of a former student.
Jennifer read portions of that email about this third grade teacher who goes by Ms. Karch.
"She goes above and beyond for her students. Once we got to know her, the more we adored her," says Manning.
Ms. Karch helped Jennifer's daughter, Summer soar her third grade year and has continued looking out for Summer as she enters 5th grade.
Jennifer also remarked on what Ms. Karch does for former and current students outside the classroom.
"Summer plays softball so she gave Ms. Karch her schedule, not only did she come to the games, but she was the loudest cheerleader there. I have talked with numerous other parents and teachers who say some of the same things I am saying. She goes to piano recitals, dance recitals, softball games, soccer games you name it. She calls them her babies."
At times, Jennifer's email had Ms. Karch fighting back tears.
"What I love most about her is she is truly genuine. She doesn't just love them the year she teaches them, she loves them forever.
And to this day, I get emails from her letting me know she has checked on my daughter and she is doing great!
Please take this information and hopefully acknowledge her. "
For those reasons we presented her a NewsChannel 3 People Taking Action award along with a $300 Visa gift card from our community partner Southern Bank.
Wiping away tears, Ms. Karch said, "Thank you."
We also gave her a NewsChannel 3 People Taking Action pin and she responded with a spunky, "I'm telling you, I'm wearing that."
And her response to being acknowledged and the whole surprise... "I'm humbled. I'm so appreciative and I'm speechless."
