After 25 years of teaching in Glen Rock Public Schools, Byrd’s first-grade teacher Mrs. Keri Holmgren has left a lasting impression on countless students and families. As Byrd parent Mrs. Allison Seigle wrote in her nomination of Holmgren for a special wellness retreat, “Mrs. Holmgren is the kind of teacher who leaves an imprint on a child that lasts long after first grade is over.”
Inspired by the profound impact Holmgren has had on her own family and the Byrd community, Seigle nominated her for an all-expenses-paid weekend hosted by Hoda Kotb through her personal wellness platform, Joy 101. During the first week of the school year, Kotb and a small team arrived at Byrd after school to surprise Holmgren and recognize her not only as an outstanding educator, but someone who spends her days focusing on the happiness and wellbeing of others.
Seigle’s heartfelt nomination captured what so many Byrd families have come to know: Holmgren’s gift extends far beyond teaching first-grade lessons. She helps children discover their strengths, believe in themselves, and feel truly seen, supported, and loved. For a teacher who spends so much of her time making others feel valued, the moment offered a chance to feel that same appreciation in return.
In her submission to Joy 101, Seigle painted a particularly moving picture of the final day of first grade for her son, Bennett, and his classmates. “On the last day of school, Mrs. Holmgren walks out of Byrd Elementary in Glen Rock, NJ with a line of seven-year-olds behind her…many of them crying because they simply aren’t ready for their time with her to end,” she wrote. “Somehow, waiting at the other end of that line are just as many teary parents, realizing that 183 days with an extraordinary teacher are over.”
Seigle explained that while Holmgren understands the academic expectations of first grade and the importance of helping every child grow, she never loses sight of the individual child behind those expectations. “If a student is struggling in any way, she doesn’t see a problem to be fixed, but a child who needs someone to believe in them,” she said. “When a child is afraid to try, she finds a way to make them brave. When a child succeeds, she celebrates them as though they have accomplished something monumental. By the end of the year, they believe it too.”
Her compassion extends just as meaningfully to parents. Holmgren is described as a teacher who listens without judgment, responds with genuine care, and makes families feel that their concerns matter. That parent-teacher partnership has made a lasting impression on Seigle herself, who is also a first grade teacher. She continues to draw on advice Holmgren once shared when speaking with her own students.
Watch Hoda surprise Mrs. Keri Holmgren on Joy 101’s YouTube channel, here.
For Byrd Principal Ms. Kelly Hughes, Holmgren’s selection was a fitting tribute to an educator whose influence is felt throughout the school. “It comes as no surprise to the Byrd School community that Mrs. Holmgren was chosen for this special opportunity,” Hughes stated. “While she is a master of pedagogy and instructional practices, what truly sets her apart is the way she sees each student as an individual, takes the time to know them deeply, and finds meaningful ways to celebrate their unique gifts and strengths.”
Hughes also praised Holmgren’s ability to foster meaningful connections with the Byrd families. “She builds deeply trusting relationships with her students’ families, creating a true partnership that helps every child thrive,” she continued. “We are so fortunate to have Mrs. Holmgren as part of our Byrd family!”
From September 25–27, Mrs. Holmgren traveled to Amelia Island, Florida, for Joy 101’s signature fall retreat at The Ritz-Carlton. Created by Kotb, the retreat was designed to bring joy, rest, and renewal to people who spend so much of their lives caring for others.
The unforgettable weekend included meaningful conversations with Kotb and a curated group of celebrities and experts, immersive wellness workshops, sunrise beach walks, and opportunities for connection and reflection. More than a getaway, it offered Holmgren a chance to step away from her everyday responsibilities, recharge, and experience the same care and encouragement she so generously gives to others.
Holmgren sent her gratitude to her entire Glen Rock family for the outpouring of support and congratulations. “Like I said in the video, I am blessed. I have spent the last 25 years getting to work with incredible families and inspiring colleagues, who are equally deserving of such recognition,” she continued. “The retreat was not only enriching, but a beautiful reminder of the power of connection, learning, and being surrounded by wonderful people.”
In her nomination, Seigle reflected on what Holmgren’s students may remember years from now. They might not recall every lesson, assignment or activity from first grade, she wrote, but they will remember something far more lasting. “They will remember how she made them feel–” she continued, “important, capable, loved, and believed in.”
Seigle ended her nomination submission with words that capture the heart of this recognition and the reason Holmgren’s story resonates so deeply. “Please choose Mrs. Holmgren not just because she is an exceptional teacher, but because she is the kind of person who makes the world around her a little kinder, a little more confident, and a whole lot better,” she concluded. “She doesn't just teach children. She becomes part of their story.”
