Sara Shabir, a dedicated elementary school teacher at Tyndale Community School in Oxford, England, crafted a heartfelt and unique end-of-year gift for her third-grade students by crocheting miniature versions of each one. Starting the project in May, she devoted approximately eight hours to create each of the 30 personalized dolls, culminating in a remarkable 240-hour labor of love. Inspired by her affection for her pupils and her passion for crocheting, which she picked up during the COVID-19 lockdowns, Sara meticulously designed each doll to capture the distinct features and personalities of her students. This thoughtful gesture not only commemorated their time together but also provided the children with a tangible and cherished memento of their year.
The presentation of these tiny lookalikes was met with joy and amazement. Sara’s attention to detail, from matching hairstyles to accurately representing skin tones, ensured that each doll was a perfect mini-me of its student. The children were thrilled and touched by the personalized gifts, instantly recognizing themselves and playing with their miniature counterparts. The gesture quickly gained widespread admiration after a parent, Joanna Borysiak, shared the heartwarming story on Twitter-X, praising Sara as “the absolute GOAT” for her incredible effort. Sara’s project not only delighted her students but also showcased the profound impact of a teacher’s love and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of her students and the wider community.
