Jordan Chiles reunites with inspiring high school teacher

A collaborative initiative between Upworthy and DonorsChoose is reuniting notable former students with the teachers who inspired them. As part of this celebration of educators, gymnast Jordan Chiles recently surprised her former high school teacher, Patti Gaines, at her classroom in Vancouver, Washington.

Chiles, who described Gaines as a maternal figure and one of her best teachers, participated in a surprise event involving the school's marching band to honor Gaines's impact. The campaign aims to highlight the long-term influence of empowering educators on their students' success.