Viral video: School principal's unique morning ritual wins over internet, clocks 377 million views

Time of India

2 days ago

In today's busy school mornings, a principal from Pennsylvania has brought a personal touch with his warm and energetic greetings. Every day, he welcomes students with high-fives, fist bumps, and friendly chats– a routine that has not only lifted their spirits but also gone viral, with a video of it crossing 377 million views.
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Hallways as a place for connection
The viral footage, posted on Instagram by Zac Bauermaster, Principal of Providence Elementary School in Lancaster County, shows him greeting pupils one by one as they walk in. The cheerful atmosphere has transformed the corridor into a space where relationships are built.
In the caption accompanying the post, Bauermaster wrote, 'The hallways are for relationship-building. Let's show people they matter by how we greet them! School should be a place where kids want to be. Don't forget to have fun!'
Messages of appreciation from viewers
The comment section beneath the video has been filled with praise from people across the globe. 'Super cool teacher. They're the ones you remember,' wrote one Instagram user. Another remarked, 'All of his students will miss him when they graduate, man, what a great man you are!'
A viewer also highlighted, 'The most important part of this montage is at the very end when the kids celebrate with each other after he sets the example.'
M
any also shared heartfelt stories from their own school days. One person recalled, 'At school, all the teachers hated me for my frequent absences and sleeping in class. But there was one teacher who always loved me and gave me chocolates, making me stand out in class. I will never forget her; she cheered me up and inspired me. Now, I'm studying medicine at university after being a neglectful and unsuccessful student.
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Another wrote, 'My elementary school principal used to do the morning announcements in song, and would walk down the hallways singing or whistling and jingling this massive ring of keys every day. I am 36 now and have never forgotten how much I loved starting my schooldays with Mr. Ross.'
One more touching comment read, 'The traumatized and anxious child in me is smiling, full of hope for the other children.'
Creating a school environment students love
Speaking to People, Bauermaster explained the thought behind his approach. 'My goal as a principal is to create a school where kids want to be, a place that staff want to be as well, and then a place that families trust and are proud to send their kids,' he said.