How a Stray Cat Became a School Celebrity

Back in 1952, something unusual happened at Elysian Heights Elementary in Los Angeles. A scruffy but friendly stray tabby cat wandered into a classroom. Little did anyone know that this furry visitor would become one of the school's most beloved members for the next 15 years.

First Day of School

The cat first appeared in Room 8 one morning. He stayed through lunch, and everyone thought it was just a one-time visit. But the next morning, right when the school bell rang, the cat showed up again. From that day forward, he never missed a day of school. This perfect attendance record impressed students and teachers alike.

The students named him "Room 8" after the classroom where he first appeared. He became such an important part of school life that he even had his official yearbook photo taken every year alongside the students.

Rising to Fame

Room 8 wasn't just popular within the school walls. Being class cat feeder soon became the second most sought-after position at Elysian Heights, right after class president.

When news outlets learned about Room 8, his fame spread beyond the school. He started receiving fan mail - more than 10,000 letters in total! Students were happy to stay after school and help answer these letters on behalf of their feline friend.

A Lasting Legacy

Room 8 lived to the ripe old age of 22, passing away in 1968. But his memory lives on in many ways.

Students created a special fund at the local orthopedic hospital to help children run and play with animals. Someone wrote a book about Room 8's life. Today, visitors to Elysian Heights Elementary can see memorials and murals dedicated to him throughout the school grounds.

Perhaps most importantly, the Room 8 Memorial Cat Foundation continues his legacy by helping cats find loving homes.

This simple stray cat who wandered into a classroom one day left paw prints on the hearts of generations of students and created a legacy that continues to make a difference more than 50 years later.