Today’s good news story comes from YouTube and was sent to me by Maria Olimpieva. Thanks Maria.
For fifty years, Dolores Lopresti greeted generations of second graders at St. Margaret’s School with a smile, a lesson, and a heart full of love. Standing before students, parents, and former classmates on the day of her retirement, she admitted a surprising truth: during her first year of teaching, she cried every day and nearly quit. Fresh out of college, she felt overwhelmed. But with the encouragement of fellow teachers, she discovered her calling—and never looked back.
Mrs. Lopresti believed learning should be joyful. Whether she was dressing up as the unforgettable “Mrs. Pepperoni” to teach math or preparing children for their First Communion, she filled every lesson with laughter, patience, and kindness. To her, the students were never just pupils; they were family.
All the children wore Miss Lopresti buttons
Over the decades, she taught not only children, but eventually their children as well. Former students returned to thank her for changing their lives, inspiring careers, and giving them confidence when they needed it most. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom.
Flowers for the teacher
Although retirement marked the end of her full-time teaching career, Mrs. Lopresti knew her mission would continue. “Every day is a new day,” she reminded everyone. “Don’t give up. Be kind. Be loving. It’s not how you start—it’s how you finish. And once I’m your teacher, I’m always your teacher.”
Just a few who came to say farewell.
The good news in this story is when one loves what they do they can have a positive impact on all those they meet.
Today’s JohnKu talks about how other see us. I hope you have a lovely weekend
Impression by John W. Howell © 2026
People remember,
Kind and considerate help . . .
They repeat learning.
Here is a video of her retirement.
Fiction Favorites 
What a joyful spirit she has! LOVED the video. Teachers like that make such a difference in the lives of children. Thanks for a beautiful feel good story. 🥰
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I thought so too. I wish I had had a teacher like her. Of course, I think I was a bit of a challenge. I came to know the vice principal very well. 😊
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😂
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😊
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Wow! You know how much I love this story, John. 50 is amazing, I’m only at 43.
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Plenty yet to come, Jennie. I cannot imagine you leaving those children to fend for themselves. 😊
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That’s sweet.
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Bless Mrs. Lopresti! You can tell how much she loves those kids and her job–and the feeling is more than reciprocated.
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Oh, this is so beautiful! What a gifted life. Her joy has reached through generations and spread further. Thank you, John, for sharing her life with us. ❤️
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It’s very nice to learn about such a dedicated teacher, John. That Mrs. Lopresti lasted so long is amazing to me.
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What a legacy!
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Sad but yet happy!
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HUGE heart smiles
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She may be officially retired now, but I’m sure she’s not going to slow down a bit. Lots of energy…lots of passion for her chosen profession.
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