BAINBRIDGE, Ga. (WALB) - Just in time for Mother’s Day, a Bainbridge Middle School (BMS) teacher got the surprise of a lifetime when Good Morning America (GMA) appeared at the school Friday morning.

Mrs. Patricia Isom was chosen for the program’s annual “Breakfast in Bed” Mother’s Day festivities. Isom is a devoted mom and a sixth grade teacher at BMS. The competition had over 2,000 applications, and Isom was selected.

The surprise started with Mrs. Isom thinking that she was in a professional development meeting. That’s when she was called to the gymnasium over the PA system. Right before walking into the gym, Mrs. Isom was greeted by her best friend who submitted a presentation about how Isom deserved the recognition.

When Mrs. Isom walked into the gym, she was greeted with cheerleaders, students, teachers, parents and her family cheering for her as she walked to the bed that read “Happy Mother’s Day.”

But the surprise didn’t stop there. In fact, it was just beginning.

Isom was surprised by her husband, two sons, three brothers and best girlfriends. In the video message, her best friend Trynni Williams said Isom knows how to make lemonade out of any situation. Williams gave an example of this, sharing that Isom’s first husband passed away in 2010 on their fifth wedding anniversary, leaving her to raise their two sons on her own.

Isom then remarried, but just six months later, her husband suffered a stroke. Isom stayed by his side through it all. Isom said that her life had to happen the way it did in order for her to still be here.

Mrs. Isom poured herself into her job as an educator, even being named Teacher of the Year. Her fellow teachers said that Mrs. Isom is a mother figure to children at Bainbridge Middle School and throughout the community.

Her students said her bright spirit inspires them.

“She’s the light inside of the room,” one student, Lyric, said.

“I’ve never met another teacher like Mrs. Isom,” another, Carrington, added.

“She makes me feel like I want to go to school,” said a student named Jeremy.

“She has a very positive impact,” Fisher, another student, said.

Mrs. Isom was also appreciated during Teacher’s Appreciation Week the same week. Roslyn Palmer, Mayor Pro Tem of Bainbridge, declared Friday, May 9, “Patricia Isom Day.” Palmer also presented gifts from the city for the work Mrs. Isom does for the kids in the community as part of the declaration.

The surprises kept coming. Mrs. Isom loves gospel music and was surprised by Grammy-award winning artist, Kirk Franklin. Franklin came out with a musical tribute, singing “Brighter Day.” Franklin said it was important for him to honor Mrs. Isom because she gives so much to others, and it hit home to him because of the work she does in the community and with kids.

Isom also received an Alaskan cruise for her and her family. “Team Trish,” which is comprised of her best girlfriends, also got a surprise to see Megan Moroney, a country singer and songwriter, in concert. To go with their concert tickets, the group also got a $7,500 Expedia prize for a girls’ trip.

The GMA team didn’t stop at spoiling Mrs. Isom, though. They made sure to treat the students too. Isom received a $25,000 gift card to go to Bainbridge Middle School, which is a Title 1 school. Dollar General also donated $25,000 to go toward school supplies and any items the students need at BMS.

“When these people give to our schools, it speaks to the impact,” said BMS Principal John Kirkland. “It’s tremendous. This provides opportunity for us to give back to our school and our students.”

So, this Mother’s Day, Mrs. Isom is being honored as a dedicated educator, friend and a devoted mother.

“You are the strongest person that I know. I love you,” Williams added. “We’re here to honor you, and this had to happen for you.”

“She’s a great mother and a mother to her students,” Isom’s husband, James, said. “She’s compassionate, loving and a wonderful mom.”

Happy Mother’s Day Mrs. Isom!

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