School custodian comforts student with autism in heartwarming viral photo

ALVIN, Texas — A heartwarming photo of a Texas school custodian comforting a student with autism is going viral.

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According to KTRK-TV, mom Hollie Bellew-Shaw, of Alvin, recently shared a snapshot of Passmore Elementary's custodian, identified only as Mrs. Esther, embracing Bellew-Shaw's daughter, Kenlee, on the floor of the school stage as the fourth-grader wrapped herself in a blanket and covered her ears.

"Our school custodian is literally the best, sweetest individual in the world," Bellew-Shaw captioned the photo in a Facebook post Tuesday. "[Kenlee] wanted no part of being in the cafeteria this morning with all the noise, so she laid down w/her blanket on the stage. When Ms Esther saw her, she came and laid next to her and patted her back."

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The post concluded: "All schools should be so lucky to have their own angel on campus. Feel free to share so she can get all the appreciation & thanks she totally deserves."

On Friday, the Alvin Independent School District also shared the image and praised Mrs. Esther's actions.

"This goes to show you that a kind word, a hug and a little compassion are all it takes to make a huge difference in a child's life," the district wrote.

As of Monday morning, the district's post had received more than 1,400 reactions, hundreds of shares and dozens of comments.

"This warms my heart! I hope Mrs. Esther realizes how much her actions mean to that little girl," commenter Cynthia Brandon wrote. "She will always remember her kindness and understanding."

"Esther always has that great warming,caring smile to greet all of our Passmore children and staff every day," added Lisa Ratjen.

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Cox Media Group