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
Mrs beadle awesome kind nice teacher . Enjoyed watching her in action 😊 My past favorite teacher was Mrs tucker science teacher awesome 😎
I loved Mrs. Beadle on LHOTP. She was kind and loving and a good instructor as well.
My favorite teacher was my 9th and 10th grade history teacher, Mr. Guilliams. I was a lackadaisical student, and history was a hated subject for me. I even told him that the only reason I was in class at all was because the subject was required to graduate (Yes…I was a bit of a smart aleck when I was a young teen)! However, he turned me around by being such an inspirational teacher…a storyteller. History became exciting with his stories about what had happened in the past! He also discovered that I was a Star Trek fan, so he tailored some of his lessons for me, and he allowed me to compare true history with how it was portrayed on that show. Of course this just fueled my passion for my hobby, but it also was a gateway to learning New Mexico and World History! Mr. Guilliams helped me see the world differently, and he made learning thrilling! . He was an excellent teacher who passed away many years ago after suffering a heart attack. I still miss him, and I wish I could tell him how much he means to me and the impact he had on my life.
Miss Bradley was more care for all students. She helped Laura become future teacher in her interesting. When she became author for children’s books to educate history
Miss Bradley was more care for all students. She helped Laura become future teacher in her interesting. When she became author for children’s books to educate history
I had the most impactful 8th grade literature teacher, Mrs. Bobby, at St. John the Baptist School. Over 30 years later, we are still in touch via letters. She made a profound mark on my life. She was so intelligent and elegant and classy. I admired how her shoes always matched her outfit, the way she carried herself, and walked. She was the best teacher I ever had and one hell of an amazing woman. She is retired from teaching now after dedicating her life to the profession. She is a beautiful mentor.