Keely Burlett, who teaches “Tuesdays with Morrie” each year to her junior English students, brought along a special sign her class had made for the occasion. To the couple’s surprise, Albom not only admired the students’ work but was so impressed that he signed the sign himself and praised the Burletts for their dedication to shaping young minds through literature.

Johnny Burlett, who helps teach intensive reading and provides academic intervention services at the middle school level, has long been inspired by Albom’s writing. His connection to teaching runs deep — he himself went through the foster care system at a young age and was fortunate to be adopted by two loving teachers from the Fredonia Central School District. “That alone impacted me enough to want to give back to the youth one day and dedicate my life to impacting young people,” he shared. Outside the classroom, he continues to make a difference by coaching soccer, basketball, and track and field, as well as running the middle school art club.

Keely Burlett, who teaches both ninth and 11th grade English, shared that the encounter left the couple feeling uplifted and re-energized in their calling as educators. “Meeting the man whose words I have read to hundreds of students was truly an honor. They say you shouldn’t meet your heroes, but ours exceeded every expectation.”

“The experience brought joy and a renewed enthusiasm to our careers,” the Burletts said, reflecting on the evening that blended their passion for teaching with their admiration for one of America’s most beloved authors. As Albom wrote on Mrs. Burlett’s sign: “Giving is living!”