Acts of Kindness
School staff confronts 77-year-old janitor after learning what she’d been hiding from them
When they learned what she'd been hiding, they knew they had to do something about it.
Jenny Brown
01.22.24

In the heart of Belle Elementary School in West Virginia, there’s a person who’s become a beloved fixture.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

Frances Buzzard, affectionately known as Miss Frances, is more than just the school janitor.

She’s a cherished member of the school community, known for her dedication and warmth, especially towards the students.

But behind her friendly demeanor, Miss Frances harbored a secret.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

Amanda Mays, the school principal, stumbled upon this secret and felt compelled to address it.

The revelation?

Miss Frances had never experienced a birthday party.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

With her 77th birthday approaching, the school saw a perfect opportunity to change that.

The plan was set in motion.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

On January 19, just after lunch, an announcement over the intercom requested Miss Frances and fellow custodian Rendell Heater to report to the cafeteria.

Unbeknownst to Miss Frances, a delightful surprise awaited her.

As she stepped into the cafeteria, a chorus of “Surprise!” greeted her.

The entire school had gathered to celebrate her special day.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

Principal Mays led the crowd in a heartwarming “Happy Birthday” song, marking a first in Miss Frances’s life.

The joy and astonishment on her face were evident as she took in the sight of the staff and students united for her.

The celebration didn’t stop there.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

Miss Frances was adorned with a “Happy Birthday” sash and a pink tiara, symbolically crowning her the queen of the day.

She was invited to sit in a chair at the center of the cafeteria, surrounded by the love and admiration of the Belle Elementary community.

The festivities included a unique video montage featuring Miss Frances edited into various historic events, adding a touch of humor and nostalgia to the occasion.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

The school also presented her with handmade cards, banners, and an assortment of cupcakes, each topped with a little candle.

When asked about her past birthdays, Miss Frances recalled a time when a party was planned for her, but harsh weather conditions prevented anyone from attending.

She also shared that her family, being very frugal, rarely celebrated birthdays or other occasions.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

As she sat in the middle of the cafeteria, about to turn 77, Miss Frances experienced the joy of her first-ever birthday party.

It was a moment of pure happiness, a testament to the love and respect she had earned from the school community.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

This heartwarming story of Miss Frances’s first birthday celebration is not just a tale of a surprise party.

It’s a reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community and the beautiful ways in which that community can give back.

YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Charleston Gazette-Mail

Watch the full video of Miss Frances’s birthday surprise and share this touching story with your friends and family.

See Miss Fraces finally get to celebrate her birthday with a proper party in the video below!

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

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