In 2019, a video from WG Nunn Elementary School in Valdosta, Georgia, went viral showing PE teacher Jonathan Oliver helping kindergartner Kristen Paulk fix her hair. The moment, filmed by assistant teacher Kandice Anderson, was posted on Facebook with the caption, “When your job goes beyond teaching… #CoachO #LoveIt.”

The clip quickly went viral, reaching over 3 million views as people praised the kindness and simplicity of the gesture.

Oliver, 34, said he was surprised by the attention, noting the act is typical of caring teachers. “We, as teachers, aim to create an environment where students feel as comfortable as they do at home and genuinely enjoy their time here,” Oliver explained. “Our goal is to shower them with care and support. In this instance, it was as simple as helping with a ponytail.”

A father of three, Oliver explained that his hair skills mostly involve making ponytails, something he often does for his own daughter. He helped Kristen after she asked during a basketball activity, stepping in without hesitation.

Kristen’s mother, Miyah Cleckley, praised him, saying, “I always know that Kristen is in very good hands with him,” Kristen’s mom, Miyah Cleckley, said of Oliver. “I thought it was really cute because her father does their hair a lot. We have five girls and one son, so when I’m working, he has to pick up the weight of doing their hair.” The moment highlighted the strong bond between teachers and students, showing how small acts of care can leave a lasting impact.