Scott Messick, who has been on medical leave for months while undergoing surgery and innovative treatment, was reunited with students and staff during a Philliesthemed pep rally. Neither Messick nor the school community knew about the reunion ahead of time.
The event featured a redcarpet entrance for Messick, joined by his wife, Jackie, and their children, Amelia and Blake. Phillies Ambassador Scott Palmer and the Phillies Ballgirls presented him with a custom jersey.
The Phillie Phanatic and former Phillies infielder Mickey Morandini also made a surprise appearance, delivering an AllStar Liberty Bell honoring Messick's teaching career.
Music teacher Holly Bragg, whose essay nominating Messick was selected from hundreds of submissions, read her tribute alongside Principal Stacie Hall.
Messick's children took part in a ceremonial first pitch, followed by a victory lap recognizing Messick and his fellow teachers.
The celebration came ahead of the Phillies' Teacher Appreciation Night at Citizens Bank Park, where Messick and nine other AllStar Teachers were honored before Friday's 6:40 p.m. game against the Colorado Rockies.