Bonner Elementary was buzzing with excitement as students welcomed back a beloved former teacher today. Former PE teacher Francis Stanfield stepped back into the gym to co-teach a PE class with Bonner’s second graders.
A resident of The Hamptons of Tyler Senior Living, Ms. Stanfield retired from Bonner in 2008 after nearly two decades of inspiring students to stay active, have fun, and believe in themselves. The visit is part of The Hamptons’ “Miracle Moments” program, which helps residents relive meaningful and joy-filled experiences from their lives. For Ms. Stanfield, that miracle moment meant returning to the place where she found purpose and pride in helping students move, grow, and shine.
“Bonner was such a big part of my life, even years after I left,” said Francis Stanfield. “I’m so glad to be able to come back, see the kids, and reconnect with some of the staff I worked with while I was here.”
Ms. Stanfield came fully prepared for her big return — dressed just as she was known years ago, in a full tracksuit, a Bonner Bee T-shirt, and her trusty whistle around her neck. Students stretched, ran, and moved under her guidance while family members and staff cheered her on.
“She was overjoyed with excitement when she walked into the gym,” said Sara Teichgraeber, Activity Director at The Hamptons of Tyler. “Ms. Stanfield’s heart has always been with Bonner Elementary. She often tells stories of her time there and even helps lead PE classes at The Hamptons, where everyone knows her as the ‘Queen Bee.’ We’ve been working for some time to make this a reality—to bring her back to be a Bonner Bee once again.”
For Ms. Stanfield, the morning brought her back to the same gym where she once built confidence and community—and even launched a track meet tradition that continues in Tyler ISD today.