Kris Brammer has taught several generations of Mattapoisett elementary students, and as she retires from 27 years of teaching, the Old Hammondtown School community honored her with a special ceremony on Friday morning.

Brammer, a Mattapoisett native, spent her entire career in town, starting as a computer teacher at Center School before moving to OHS in 1993 where she taught fifth grade.

At the surprise tribute, many teachers and students wore the color purple or Hawaiian leis, two things Brammer is known for, along with the reflection books, Oscar parties and writing assignments she did with students each year.

Students in her classes over the years have been known as the Brammer Bunch, and many alums recorded videos thanking Brammer and sharing memories of their time in the fifth grade, often ending with the class motto: "Peace, love and happiness."

"You were always teaching us to look for the good in people," said Alex Aruri, now in college. "Peace, love and happiness."

"We hope your retirement is as good to you as you were to all of your students," said another student by video.

Laura Mirabito, a sixth grade teacher at the school, also praised Brammer's teaching and love of the kids.

"To her, being a teacher was not just a job, it was a calling and an identity. No teacher puts in the extensive amounts of work at home and in the classroom simply because they want kids to learn reading and arithmetic," Mirabito said. "She worked tirelessly because she loves children, and she wants them to have memorable experiences and become the best version of themselves."

Principal Rose Bowman presented Brammer with certificates from the Massachusetts Teachers' Association, the State Congress and the State House of Representatives as well as a plaque of appreciation from the Board of Selectmen.

"Today we wish her the greatest joy and may love always light your way," said Bowman.

A teary Brammer, said she was surprised by the ceremony.

"This is too much. I'm overwhelmed. It's been my life. It's been my identity," she said. "I love teaching and it's hard to walk away."

Brammer said she isn't sure what she will do in her retirement, but she plans to take it "one day at a time."