Chicago Bears Quarterback Caleb Williams Surprises Manhattan D114 Students With Signed Jersey

MANHATTAN, IL — One Manhattan District 114 teacher's classroom tradition after each Chicago Bears victory has now led to a lifelong memory for her students.

Sports have always been a part of teacher Hailey Bartlaga's life, as she watched games with her father throughout her childhood, and played soccer into her college years. "Her passion for sports has remained a constant," the district said, and one the first-grade teacher carried into her classroom.

The tradition began with something simple for the devoted Chicago Bears fan: Chicago Bears coloring sheets after a Bears victory. Some students were initially drawn to the team's bear mascot, others recognized quarterback Caleb Williams' number 18, and some were already familiar with the Bears through family members who cheered for the team.

The coloring sheets quickly became a highly anticipated classroom reward. Students began requesting Bears coloring sheets over other options, but there was one important rule: the special sheets could only come out after a Bears win.

As excitement continued to grow, Bartlaga shared a social media post on November 3 highlighting the classroom's love for the Bears. She jokingly mentioned that her students had begun to believe she and Caleb Williams were actually friends because of how often she talked about him and the team.

What happened next was beyond anything she could have imagined.

The post gained attention and eventually reached Williams himself. After learning about the students and their special classroom tradition, the Bears quarterback sent a surprise package that included a signed Chicago Bears jersey.

While receiving a signed jersey from an NFL quarterback was certainly exciting, Bartlaga said the most meaningful part of the experience has been watching the tradition bring her students together.

"More than anything, the buzz surrounding the Bears has created an even greater sense of community within our classroom," she said.

"It has become something we all share, whether we are talking about the latest game, celebrating a win, or looking forward to our next Bears coloring sheet. Seeing students who may not have originally been football fans become excited and connect over something together has been so special."

The Chicago Bears currently lead the NFC North with a 7-2 record and are on a bye week. They play next against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, Nov. 22, at 12 p.m. at Soldier Field.