Thank-a-Teacher Giveaway: Little House Nostalgia & Modern Day Heroes
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:
-
Comment below and tell us which Little House on the Prairie teacher was your favorite.
-
Share a few words about your own favorite teacher—the one who left a lasting impact on your life.
-
You may also enter by commenting on our Thank-a-Teacher Post on Facebook & Instagram, for a total of 3 entries per person.
-
One lucky winner from each platform will receive a $75 Modern Prairie gift card! (3 winners total)
-
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!
64 comments
I liked both Miss Beadle AND I loved to see Laura become a teacher, too.
I had many teachers that I could choose as my favorite, but I’ll have to say my favorite was my great aunt, who was a teacher in S. Dakota in a one room school house like in LHOTP. My time with my great aunt was after she had retired, but she was still a wonderful teacher for me growing up!
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.
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.