A Nine-Year-Old's Heartfelt Gesture for His Teacher

Parker Williams is only a nine-year-old third-grader, but his recent act touched millions: Parker wrote a heartfelt letter to his teacher, Ms. Chambers, attaching bills next to his child-like handwriting.

"Dear Ms. Chambers," Parker started his letter, "I don’t think teachers get enough money for what they do. So will you accept this gift? My money..."

A small arrow that Parker drew on the letter pointed to $15, with a $5 bill on top.

When asked later why he gave his teacher the money given to him for his birthday, Parker said, "I got many birthday gifts besides this money. I think she’s a nice teacher with a unique way of teaching us. She puts so much into each student, and I know teachers don’t get paid a lot – so I decided to give it to her."

Parker heard about teachers’ salaries on the news and decided he could not remain indifferent.

Upon receiving the touching letter, Ms. Chambers was moved to tears. "Parker is a special child. There’s no doubt he has exceptional sensitivity for his age," she said. However, she wrote back to Parker, explaining she couldn't accept his money. "I can't take your gift, but I appreciate your gesture. Parker, students like you are the reason I teach," she wrote.

In the media, Ms. Chambers mentioned, "Teachers dedicate their best to students, and not everyone around sees that. We take work home, and we carry the weight of every student’s situation in our hearts – our day doesn’t end when the bell rings. It’s amazing to see such a young child understand the true meaning behind all we do and know that we do much more than what students perceive."