The sweet surprise of kindergartners singing “Happy Birthday” in sign language to the deaf caretaker will thrill you

The custodian of Hickerson Elementary School in Tullahoma, Tennessee James Anthonyaffectionately known as “Mr. James”, received a gift that warmed his heart: the kindergarten children, to celebrate his sixtieth birthday, sang “Happy Birthday” to him using sign language.

The initiative was a surprise organized by two preschool teachers, Allyssa Hartsfield and Amy Hershman, with the support of assistant Shelly Lucas and school nurse Angela Ridner. These educators they taught the children the song and signs on the day of the surprisecreating a touching and special moment.

When Anthony entered the classroom for the surprise, the children welcomed him with their affectionate gesture. The caretaker, surprised and visibly moved, reacted with joy, putting his hands to his head as he listened and watched the children sing the song. This touching gesture revealed the deep bond between Anthony and the little students, who wanted to show him their affection and gratitude in a special way.

The custodian has a special relationship with the students

Hickerson Elementary is a small school of approximately 218 students, but its small size is made up for by the warmth of the community that has developed there. Anthony has been deaf since birth, but that has never stopped him from establish a special relationship with students.

The school secretary, Vonni Scott, said he is a beloved presence for all the children. “Everyone loves it,” Scott explained, adding that the kids were excited about doing something unique for his birthday.

Anthony, despite his deafness, manages to communicate well with children and often accompanies them in the corridors, exchanging signs and “high fives” with them. Scott highlighted how sign language is particularly important for many of the children with special needs in the school and Anthony was able to get closer to them through this means of communication.

The children’s tribute, guided by teachers and school staff, was a sign of respect and affection towards a person who is an integral part of their school life. This moment was shared by the school on social media, where it collected many positive comments, demonstrating how a small gesture can transform into an unforgettable memory and testify to the value of kindness and inclusion.