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Lessons From Lucy Laney

Mauri Friestleben of 'Love Them First' appears on TODAY Show

The woman who taught many what it looks like to love the kids in front of her first, with no agenda, is now reaching wider audiences.

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NEW YORK — Watch Mauri's appearance on TODAY here!

Mauri Friestleben, the former principal of Lucy Craft Laney Elementary School, captured hearts across the country when audiences met her through KARE 11's documentary "Love Them First."

The woman who taught many what it looks like to love the kids in front of her first, with no agenda, is now reaching wider audiences.

Friestleben appeared on the TODAY Show Monday morning in the third hour. Now a principal at North High School, Friestleben continues to do the same work of fighting to close Minnesota's achievement gap, and speaking the same message of perseverance and love.

Mauri Friestleben appeared on the TODAY Show on KARE 11, Monday morning, Jan. 20, in the 3rd hour. If you missed it, click here to watch online.

This school principal's vow to 'love them first' inspired award-winning documentary

A school principal in one of Minnesota's most vulnerable school districts, Mauri Friestleben inspired an award-winning documentary called "Love Them First." On the 3rd hour of TODAY, she talks about the making of the film and the "hard love" she gives her students.

RELATED: KARE 11's feature-length documentary 'Love Them First' now available for streaming

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Watch the full documentary below or click here.