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!
58 comments
Sister Flora was my favorite teacher. She taught us to sing for our First Communion and was loving and kind to each of the kids. She was a very special lady and she smelled like violets. It was at a time in my life where I felt very alone. I was in the second grade. Sister Flora was really a beautiful teacher .
Miss Beadle! I loved my sixth grade teacher, Mrs. Usborne. I missed so much school the first year due to illness that my grades weren’t very good. She was very strict and most of the kids didn’t like her. But I appreciated her teaching and organization. She and my parents let me decide if I wanted a do-over. So I decided to take that grade over again, but only if she would be my teacher again. Because of that opportunity, I became an all-A student from that time on. I thanked her many times and used to send her letters. I hope to see her again in Heaven someday!
What about Mrs. Ingalls when she taught school. (When Ms. Beadle) hurt her ankle
Ms. Beadle- she was very loving. My favorite teachers are my daughters, Mrs. Jenna Martel and Mrs. Rachel Roth. They love their students and work hard to get them where they need to be!
Laura was my favourite. My own favorite teacher was my high school teacher. He didn’t just teach us the regular subjects. He also taught us how to develop socially and respect ourselves and the people in our surroundings. Unfortunately, he passed away from cancer before we graduated. Today I work as a teacher myself and will always carry his values and methods with me.