Teacher surprised with gift from a Secret Santa following devestating house fire
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A local Secret Santa is giving $1 million to deserving people in eastern Idaho this holiday season. Every day, from now until the end of the year, the East Idaho News elves will be delivering gifts from Secret Santa and we’ll be sharing the surprise videos here.
Mrs. Mabey, a beloved educator who teaches teen living in Shelley, was away from school for several days earlier this month after a fire broke out in her home. She later shared with students that the incident began with a persistent smell she initially did not recognize as dangerous. By that evening, the odor intensified, prompting her husband to investigate. Using a flashlight, he spotted smoke coming from attic vents and immediately called the fire department.
Firefighters responded quickly but had to break through the ceiling to reach the source of the fire. Once the ceiling was opened, flames ignited. While the family was able to get out safely, the damage left their home uninhabitable. The Mabeys had to stay in a hotel and will be displaced for six to eight months while the house is cleaned and repaired.
Despite the personal hardship, those who know Mrs. Mabey say she continues to show the same warmth and positivity she brings to the classroom every day. Known for her kindness, humor, and dedication to her students, she is described as someone who makes learning fun and always finds ways to serve others. Students say she frequently bakes treats for school activities and fundraisers and goes out of her way to make everyone feel welcome.
Secret Santa heard about Mrs. Mabey and asked the East Idaho News elves to surprise her with an early Christmas gift. Check out the video in the player above!
