All Good News

Special Education Teacher Surprises Student On His Birthday Dressed As A Unicorn

May 10, 2021

A special education teacher in California surprised one of her students during his "Birthday Drive-By."

@petehalvorsen

Manhattan Beach residents Pete and Allison Halvorsen planned a car parade for their son Luke's 10th birthday.

After all of the cars rolled past, a dancing unicorn strutted down the street.

Pete cranked up the song "One More Time" from Luke's favorite movie "Trolls World Tour". The unicorn danced in the street as Luke danced on the lawn.

@petehalvorsen

Under the inflatable costume was Meadows Elementary School teacher Heather Tuttle, also known as "the unicorn teacher". She decorates her classroom with unicorns, gives unicorn gifts, and even lets students dictate her next hair color.

The unicorn, says Tuttle, is the perfect symbol for her special students.

"A lot of our kids don't fit the typical mold," Tuttle told Daily Breeze. "So, it's a good message for them that it's okay to be different and to be proud of who they are."

Heather Tuttle / @petehalvorsen

"It takes a special person to choose that line of work... and Ms. Tuttle puts the Special in Special Education year round," Pete Halvorsen said.

"I just try to connect with students in whatever way I can," Tuttle added.