Kyle Simpler, 56, teaches English at Burleson High School in Burleson, Texas. When he walked into his classroom on Thursday, he was greeted by a collective "Happy Birthday!" as students approached him with gifts and cards, wished him a good birthday and began singing to him.

Simpler held back tears when he saw a cake the teenagers had brought for him and as he surveyed the classroom, which the students had decorated with streamers and balloons.

Overwhelmed, Simpler stood back in surprise and thanked his students.

About the Author

Keep Reading

The quadrangle at Oxford College of Emory University. The university announced Wednesday it will be tuition-free for undergraduates whose families earn less than $200,000. (Courtesy of Kay Hinton)

Credit: Kay Hinton

Featured

The city of Atlanta opened Azalea Fresh Market downtown to help residents find affordable groceries. (Natrice Miller/AJC)