When we think about Little House on the Prairie, it’s easy to picture golden fields, bustling homesteads, and family gathered around the fire. But just as important to Laura’s story—and to so many of ours—were the teachers who helped shape young minds along the way.
Remember Miss Eva Beadle? With her kind heart and steady patience, she was the very first teacher to welcome Laura and Mary into the Walnut Grove schoolhouse. Then there was Eliza Jane Wilder, Almanzo’s sister, who brought a bit more structure and formality (and a few memorable moments of strictness!) to the classroom. And let’s not forget Etta Plum, who continued the tradition of compassion, education, and community connection as the town grew.
And of course, we couldn't forget that Laura was a Walnut Grove teacher, herself!
Each of these teachers brought something special to the prairie—guidance, wisdom, encouragement—and left their mark on a generation.
And it’s no different today.
Teachers shape our futures with every lesson taught, every word of encouragement, every moment they believe in us before we believe in ourselves. This Teacher Appreciation Month, we're taking a moment to honor them—both the ones we grew up watching and the ones who made a real difference in our own lives.
The Thank-a-Teacher Giveaway
Here's how to enter:
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Comment below and tell us which Little House on the Prairie teacher was your favorite.
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Share a few words about your own favorite teacher—the one who left a lasting impact on your life.
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You may also enter by commenting on our Thank-a-Teacher Post on Facebook & Instagram, for a total of 3 entries per person.
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One lucky winner from each platform will receive a $75 Modern Prairie gift card! (3 winners total)
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Please, only ONE entry per post.
- Winners will be announced on Monday May 12th, 2025
Every story you share is a small way to say "thank you"—and it just might win you a $75 gift card in our Thank-a-Teacher Giveaway!
Because the lessons that stay with us forever didn’t just come from books or family members. They came from the hearts of incredible teachers. 💛
We can't wait to hear your stories!
57 comments
Miss Beadle was my favorite. She was so compassionate, sweet tempered and passionate about her job. Despite her limited resources, I mean she only used chalk for the most part and the readers, she provided a nurturing environment in which students thrived. I also admired her kept composure-she always looked pretty and organized. I teach art class and by the end of the day I’m a mess.
I loved Ms. Beadle on LHOTP. She was kind and managed those kids well. I remember she loved the scent lemon verbena.
My own favorite teacher was Sr. Claire in the 7th grade. She made me love history and was a lovely person. She left our school and went to teach on an Indian reservation.
My favorite teacher had to be Ma who taught the girls what they needed to be kind and loving strong women. My own favorite teacher was Mr Kantziper. He encouraged my love of earth science (I love weather and geology and got married on an active volcano). He also encouraged my crazy dream to be a disc jockey. I’ve been I radio for 44 years (since I was 16) and Mr K and I are still friends. He’s 93 years old and I’m almost 61.
Miss Beadle was my favorite teacher on LHOTP. She was very kind and sweet with an ever so gentle spirit.
My favorite teacher was Mrs. brown and I was in 4th grade. She was the science teacher and really took the time to listen to me. She was stern but kind and had a sweet gentle spirit like Miss Beadle. Mrs Brown was my safe space. I often wonder where she is now.
My favorite teacher on LHOTP was Eliza Jane Wilder. I felt she had the most growth over the course of the show.
One of my favorite teachers in High School was Mr Freeman. It was right around the time when Dead Poet’s Society came out. He was young and just starting out. He collected poems of ours and “published” them. By published I mean in a journal he created. It made us feel special and helped spark creativity. I think he was only there one year but he made an impact on me.