As she walked the stage Dec. 16 to receive her diploma, Crandall Blake, who majored in elementary education, wore shoes signed by the kindergartners she student-taught at Lakeview Elementary School in Lincoln.

Blake, and her students, spoke with the Lincoln Journal-Star about the milestone of graduation, and the impact Blake made in the classroom.

Craig Chandler | University Communication and Marketing

Crandall Blake receives a massive hug from several students when she returned to her classroom for one last time.

“They were like ‘Why can’t we go on stage? We want to go to graduation. I want to go walk on the stage,’” Blake said. “I cannot bring 24 5-year-olds with me… So then I thought I might as well have them walk with me as close as I can.

“Every day I teach and I wear these shoes, I can remember the kids that helped me get there from square one.”

The Journal-Star story also ran in papers statewide. The story was also told by KOLN, which was shared across the state through affiliate channels.

Craig Chandler | University Communication and Marketing

Lillian (center), along with Bella (left) and Holden decorate Blake’s high tops.