It was the Monday after I had run the Long Island Half Marathon. Even though the race was behind me, my legs still felt heavy and sore from carrying me those 13 miles the day before. I woke up feeling exhausted, knowing that I had a full day ahead of me.

I’m an eighth grade English teacher, and Monday was one of those days where all I could think was, “Just get through nine periods. In nine periods, you’ll be home for a nap.” The day ahead felt long, but I reminded myself that eventually, the workday would end and I could rest.

By the time sixth period rolled around, I was grateful for the chance to teach an integrated English and Social Studies class. It was one of my favorite periods because it gave me a chance to mix things up and engage students in new ways. I figured it would also be a good time to sneak off for a quick bathroom break before my seventh period class started.

While I was finishing up in the restroom, I heard voices in the hallway. At first, I thought it was the custodians getting ready to turn on the air-conditioning since it was May and the weather was warming up. But as I opened the door, I was stunned to see someone familiar — my partner Ron’s brother’s girlfriend — standing right there holding a video camera.

My brain scrambled to process why she was there. Before I could ask, I heard a man yelling my principal’s name. Then I saw him — it was Ron! It was really Ron!

My mind raced with all sorts of wild, illogical thoughts. What on earth is he doing here? How did this happen?

Behind me, my principal’s secretary and Ron’s sister stood, both holding cameras and taking pictures. I kept repeating, “What are you doing here?”

Ron smiled and took my hand gently. We started walking toward my classroom, and I noticed Mrs. Rodahan, my principal, carrying a bouquet of a dozen blood-red roses.

As we entered my classroom, emotions overwhelmed me, and tears started to fall. Forty curious students turned to look as Ron introduced himself. He stood confidently at the front of the room, commanding attention, while my students began to realize something very special was about to happen.

Ron asked all my students to stand at the front of the classroom facing me. He handed two students a sign, telling them to wait for his cue before unrolling it.

And then, in front of those forty students and four adults, Ron took my hand, looked me in the eyes, and told me how much he loved me.

He bent down on one knee. The sign was unfurled, revealing the words, “Ms. Ariel, Will You Marry Me?”

My heart soared. The room was filled with gasps and cheers. I said yes — of course, I said yes!

That moment became the greatest surprise of my life, a memory I will cherish forever. It was the perfect blend of love, courage, and the warmth of a community that had watched me teach and grow.

Ron’s proposal wasn’t just a question — it was a promise, a new beginning, and a beautiful testament to love in the middle of a typical school day.