Georgia teachers’ back-to-school rap video rockets them to internet stardom
Georgia high school teachers Callie Evans and Audri Williams wanted to encourage students ahead of their return to classes this week, even if much of the learning is online.
The pair, who teach at Monroe Comprehensive High School in Albany, had no idea their hip-hop inspired, back-to-school ditty — replete with catchy lyrics and background dancers — would turn them into internet sensations.
Evans and Williams teamed up for the music video, a remix of rapper Jack Harlow’s song “What’s Poppin,” in hopes of getting students pumped about distance learning. Like other school districts across the state, Dougherty County Schools kicked off the school year Monday with online-only instruction.
“We wanted to meet them where they were, just to get them excited about virtual learning because some may feel kind of nervous or upset,” Evans told FOX 31. “We just wanted to show them you can still have a good time and be ready to learn, virtually.”
The video has since taken off, garnering thousands of likes and shares across social media.
“We are in for a wild ride this school year, but let’s make the best of it!” Williams wrote on Instagram, where the video has racked up more than 139,000 views as of Wednesday. “What better way to release all of the anxiety, doubts & fears of the school year than to dance & turn up.”
The now-viral clip was directed by Overstreet Media Services and featured the high school’s cheer squad, who showed off their best moves in the music video, 11 Alive News reported. Riding the beat, Williams raps about how the coronavirus won’t keep her students from learning.
“Mrs. Williams, been poppin’, tune into the new school year droppin’,” she raps. “No COVID-19, not worried about a thing. When it comes to me, ain’t no stoppin’.”
Both Evans and Williams said they hope other teachers follow their creative approach and find ways to make it easier for students to adjust to a new normal. The duo told FOX 31 they already have another video in the works.
“It is going to be a little different, it’s a surprise,” Evans said. “We are going to give them another song, coming soon.”