Ohio State’s Kayden McDonald gives former teachers gift of a lifetime

We all can probably look back on our childhood and think of teachers who made a difference in our lives. Whether it was someone who stayed late to help us with an assignment or just told us how much they believed in us, teachers have helped shape our lives.

Before they were teammates at Ohio State, star safety Caleb Downs and defensive lineman Kayden McDonald were childhood friends growing up in the Atlanta area. They would attend elementary school together before parting ways and shining on the gridiron at different high schools. But in those elementary days, a special connection was made, not only with each other but with two former teachers as well.

Maria Martin of NBC Atlanta recently shared a heartwarming story as she sat down with Rob Arrington and Cheryl Bonds to reminisce about the Buckeye star’s return home. The teachers had glowing comments to share about the boys who are now young men. And then came the ending when Martin shared a video message from McDonald who offered praise and thanks and then gave the two educators the gift of a lifetime.

Grab some Kleenex and watch the full video below.

MUST WATCH. (warning, happy tears will ensue)
A #NationalChampionship sized surprise.@KMac_DT and @caleb_downs2 share a football field at Ohio State, but they started as great childhood friends in metro Atlanta.
I sat down with a few of their elementary school teachers who got… pic.twitter.com/TFfgELzL3Z

— Maria Martin (@Ria_Martin) January 16, 2025

What a way to say thank you! Two people who go to work every day with the hope of making a positive impact have done just that. It doesn’t always get noticed and many times teachers are left wondering if they are making a difference at all, but in this case, the evidence is clear.

Ohio State will battle Notre Dame for a National Championship on Monday and Mr. Arrington and Ms. Bonds will be there to see two formal pupils give their all. And something tells me they will be proud of their students no matter…