Kailee Spitalsky, a freshman at Ephrata High School and a goalie on the field hockey team, recently wrote an essay about Ephrata Middle School teacher Ryan Hough to highlight the positive impact he has had on her life. She submitted the essay to The V!NG Project to nominate him for a $1,000 prize. V!NG selected her essay, and on Thursday, December 12, 2024, Kailee surprised Mr. Hough with the check after school.
Mr. Hough taught Kailee two years earlier in her seventh-grade science class. Reflecting on their connection, he said, “Kailee has gone through changes and tough times, and I’ve been lucky enough to have connected with her. As she put it, I’ve been able to be there for her.”
Initially, Kailee’s essay was rejected, but she revised it and submitted it again, successfully earning the nomination.
Mr. Hough, who has a son with Down syndrome, sometimes shares stories about his son when teaching genetics, emphasizing the joy his son has brought to his life. Last year, Kailee remembered him on World Down Syndrome Day and sent him a heartfelt Schoology message.
“She’s such a cool kid,” Mr. Hough said.
“We’re fortunate to have created this bond. This connection is all I ever want as a teacher. That’s the most important thing I can do—connect with kids. It’s not about a monetary gift; it’s about the kids,” he added.
