Culture Craze
Pretoria Teacher Wins Hearts After Perfect Score in Viral “Hello Teacher, What’s My Name?” Game
A Teacher’s Touch That Went Viral
Pretoria-based Grade R teacher Kay van Greunen, affectionately known as “Miss Kay” to her learners, has captured the hearts of millions with her exceptional bond with her students. The 23-year-old teacher, who just completed her first year at Bronkhorstspruit Primary School, recently went viral after sharing a touching classroom game on TikTok.
The video, which features the heartwarming “Hello Teacher, What’s My Name?” game, shows Van Greunen guessing her pupils’ names correctly based solely on their voices—scoring a flawless 100%. Intended as a keepsake of her first class, the video unexpectedly took the internet by storm, racking up over 4 million views and more than 500,000 likes.
“I thought to post this so I can always remember them,” said Van Greunen, reflecting on the bond she’s built with her learners.
@misskayxx
Beyond the Classroom: Creating a Safe Space
Van Greunen’s success as a teacher stems from her commitment to making every child feel heard, valued, and loved. “For me, every child is unique, and I don’t want them to change who they are,” she told YOU Magazine.
While her first year presented challenges—teaching in a school where most students speak Zulu or Tswana—Van Greunen, an Afrikaans speaker, worked tirelessly to overcome the language barrier. She incorporated educational games, learned her students’ languages, and emphasized connection over perfection.
“It was overwhelming at first,” she admitted, “but I had to show them that this is a place where I’m going to help them and learn from them too.”
Her classes, conducted in English, focus on language, math, and life skills, but her philosophy goes beyond academics. Van Greunen prioritizes her students’ emotional well-being, teaching them resilience and life lessons.
“The key is to grow with them, showing them that life won’t always be easy. If you’re feeling bad or struggling, you need to put on your big pants and face the world,” she explained.
TikTok Reacts: A Tearjerker Moment
TikTok users flooded Van Greunen’s video with emotional reactions and praise:
- “Teacher spent the whole year with these kids, and this shows she engaged with each one of them. Bless you, Teacher.”
- “She knows each child’s voice… that’s special.”
- “Truly appreciate that she pronounced Bohlokwa correctly. This is beautiful.”
The overwhelming response reflects the profound impact of her efforts to create a nurturing, inclusive classroom.
Van Greunen’s video is a beautiful reminder of the power of teachers to change lives. Her innovative approach and genuine love for her students have left a lasting mark, not only on her learners but also on the millions who watched her story unfold online.
“It’s such a blessing to teach them that they don’t have to change who they are,” she said.
Van Greunen’s dedication and passion have inspired countless viewers, proving that a teacher’s connection with their students can resonate far beyond the classroom walls.
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