Duluth Middle student receives heartwarming surprise

Students and staff at Duluth Middle School were all smiles when 6th grader Khloe received an unexpected visitor during class. Her father, who had been deployed for more than a year in Poland, showed up to surprise her upon his return home.

“I didn't expect him to come home until later in the year,” Khloe says. “It's not as fun [when he’s gone] because I only have one parent instead of both. I get sad when I can't see him for so long.”

After the shock wore off, Khloe and her father hugged as Khloe’s classmates clapped. This special moment was made possible by the staff at Duluth Middle after receiving a request from Khloe’s mom, Shannon. The school accepted the invitation and arranged for a simple, smooth, and memorable reunion for the family.

“Moments like these bring our families and GCPS schools together. We are one community and are intentional about loving our families,” adds Duluth Middle School Principal Dr. Jimmie McKinley. “It is an honor to serve in a place where the vision of Duluth United is realized; a place where everyone truly belongs.”

Watch the video of the happy reunion.