Absolutely Breathtaking Video Shows Hundreds Of Students Honoring Teacher With The Haka

Oct 03, 2018 by apost team

We all know that teachers’ hard work often goes unrecognized. In most cases, the pay they make isn't even enough to cover the hard work that goes into the job of teaching. From dealing with difficult students to having to provide textbooks and supplies for their classrooms, the responsibilities of teachers are never-ending.

The truly giving people that choose to become teachers are the ones that heed the call. As a teacher, one has to pour their heart into their job each day. It's a wonder that so many teachers spend their life dedicating their time to educating others.

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John Adams is one of those selfless and hardworking teachers. After spending 30 years teaching, then working as a guidance counselor for New Zealand’s Palmerston North Boys’ High School, Adams knew it was his time to go. While he spent several years as a dedicated teacher, working for so long in a school can wear on a person.

Teachers have to put up with a lot. It isn't always easy to deal with children, day in and day out, let alone the politics that accompany working for a school. Many teachers often feel burned out, especially if they believe that they are never truly appreciated.

It is up to the school, students, and their parents to show a teacher how much the teacher means to them. In the case of John Adams, his school and his students knew exactly what to do.

After hearing of Adams' retirement, the school wanted to make sure their beloved teacher knew how much he was appreciated. Adams’ students gathered together to honor him in the best way they knew how: a farewell Haka danced in Adams’ honor.

For anyone unfamiliar with the Haka, it is a traditional Maori war dance that is used to convey honor, pride, and unity.

Comprised of yelling, foot stomping, fierce facial expressions, and fist-pounding, Hakas are quite popular in New Zealand. For most people, the Haka is one of the most emotional displays of affection that they have ever experienced.

Anyone that watches the video will be sure to get goosebumps. When watching the dance, it is impossible to go without feeling the sheer passion and gratitude that his students feel.

These students gave all of their energy in the dance, the same way John Adams did during his career for 30 years.

What do you think about the Haka? How would you feel if your sendoff was this dance? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts, and pass this along to your friends and family to keep this breathtaking tribal tradition alive.