Phillies surprise an All-Star teacher

The Phillies on Thursday morning joined the students of Brigantine Community School in New Jersey to surprise a beloved teacher.

Mindy Pomatto, who has taught physical education at Brigantine for the past 19 years, arrived at the school’s outdoor track expecting a field day meeting, but she was greeted instead by 400 of her students, Phillies ambassador Scott Palmer and the Phillies Ballgirls, who were all there to celebrate her selection as a Phillies All-Star Teacher. The Brigantine Police and Fire Department also joined the ceremony, along with former Phillies All-Star Mickey Morandini and the Phillie Phanatic, who led an All-Star workout with Pomatto and her students.

“It’s like a dream, this isn’t even real,” Pomatto said. “I can’t get over this. Everyone I love, all in the same spot. It’s great.”

Pomatto was nominated as a Phillies All-Star Teacher by retired police officer Brian Feehan and chosen out of more than 500 educators, each recognized by students, parents and colleagues for their tireless efforts in classrooms across the Philadelphia area.

Pomatto is one of 10 local educators who will be honored as part of the 21st annual Teacher Appreciation Night powered by Constellation on Monday at Citizens Bank Park before the Phillies take on the Brewers.

“I've never felt underappreciated here. We are one team on this island, everyone here works together so well,” Pomatto said. “I'm happy every day coming into work. This is just amazing.”