Maren Morris pays tribute to teacher who ‘changed her life’

Country star Maren Morris has revealed the tough-love teacher who helped shape her into the award-winning songwriter she is today, and she’s still giving back because of it.

The 36-year-old Grammy winner opened up about the huge impact her high-school English teacher, Ms. Wheat, had on her life, admitting the educator pushed her harder than anyone else at school.

Speaking to People, Maren said Ms. Wheat “changed my life” because she recognised her talent early on and refused to let her coast by. 

The Girl singer explained that constantly trying to impress her teacher helped sharpen her writing skills, something that later became the backbone of her chart-topping music career.

Maren also praised teachers for carrying the emotional weight of helping children build confidence and creativity, calling their work “heavy lifting”.

And The Middle singer isn’t just talking the talk. 

She revealed she still donates all of her meet-and-greet earnings to fine arts programmes and underprivileged schools.

The songstress said she wants students to have access to proper instruments, fresh choir outfits and decent drama costumes.

Away from the classroom, the Chasing After You hitmaker has also been connecting with fans through heartbreak. 

Her deeply personal album Dreamsicle explored her split from ex-husband Ryan Hurd, whom she divorced in 2024 after six years of marriage.

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