Beverly Hannett-Price: A Record-Setting Legacy in Education

Beverly Hannett-Price, a 90-year-old English teacher at Detroit Country Day School, has been awarded a Guinness World Record for her remarkable 67-year teaching career, making her the longest-serving female language teacher. The recognition was presented during an assembly on February 2, 2026, honoring her dedication to her students and the teaching profession. Hannett-Price's former students include notable figures such as the late actor Robin Williams, Emmy and Tony Award winner Courtney B. Vance, and former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer.

Teacher who taught Robin Williams, Steve Ballmer earns Guinness World Record for 67-year career

Hannett-Price began her teaching career in 1958 after graduating from Albion College. Throughout her extensive career, she has taught in various states, including Alabama and Florida, but has spent a significant portion of her time at Detroit Country Day School. In a statement, she expressed her unwavering passion for teaching, stating, “I have never left this building or any school building that I taught in ever wanting to do anything else with my life but to teach children.” Her enthusiasm for education remains strong, as she has no plans to retire, emphasizing her love for the school and the opportunities it provides for students.

Teacher who taught Robin Williams, Steve Ballmer earns Guinness World Record for 67-year career

The impact of Hannett-Price's teaching extends beyond academics; she has formed deep, lasting relationships with her students. Courtney Vance, one of her former students, shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling how she supported him during difficult times, including the loss of his father. Vance described her as “an absolute blessing” to his family, highlighting the profound influence she has had on his life. Her granddaughter, Charlotte Cook, who is also a student at the school, noted that Hannett-Price makes learning engaging and is regarded as a "celebrity" among students.

Teacher who taught Robin Williams, Steve Ballmer earns Guinness World Record for 67-year career

Guinness World Records acknowledged Hannett-Price's lifelong commitment, stating that the award honors not only the duration of her career but also the depth of her influence on students across various fields, including entertainment and business. The school administration echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the historic nature of her recognition and the inspiration she provides to both current and future generations of students.

‘She’s an absolute blessing’: US teacher, 90, gets Guinness World Record for 67-year career

• “I have never left this building or any school building that I taught in ever wanting to do anything else with my life but to teach children,” — Beverly Hannett-Price, Teacher

Teacher who taught Robin Williams, Steve Ballmer earns Guinness World Record for 67-year career

• “She’s had a lot of students and she kept in touch with me. She knew I didn’t know things coming from public school, inner city … she befriended me. So much so, when my father died of suicide, she came and sat with my mother in our house. And that’s when I realized this is more than just a student-teacher relationship. This is a life relationship,” — Courtney B. Vance, Actor

Teacher who taught Robin Williams, Steve Ballmer earns Guinness World Record for 67-year career

• “My friends always talk to me about her. I think she’s just such a celebrity in school and outside of school, which is so special,” — Charlotte Cook, Granddaughter

‘She’s an absolute blessing’: US teacher, 90, gets Guinness World Record for 67-year career

Beverly Hannett-Price's record-setting achievement not only highlights her dedication to education but also serves as a testament to the lasting impact a teacher can have on their students' lives.

‘She’s an absolute blessing’: US teacher, 90, gets Guinness World Record for 67-year career