CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — Kim Harding loves being a teacher at Dudley Shoals Elementary.

An elementary school teacher lost her home to a fire

Kim Harding teaches at Dudley Shoals Elementary in Caldwell County

The community is helping her through the tragedy

"It's challenging, but rewarding at the same time when you see the little bit of growth in kids," Harding said.

She's a reading teacher. She's always had a close relationship with her students and their families. 

Recently, they have gotten a lot closer. Harding was on the playground when she was told by the janitor that the home she was renting was on fire.

"The corner was on fire, and I remember the first firefighter told me just that room had burned so far," Harding said.

Her dogs died in the fire. She and her husband lost everything except their beloved horses and a trailer they are now staying in. 

Her community is helping her. A shed was donated for six months and is filled with clothes and toiletry items that are all donated.

"I know God has a plan," Harding said.

The school has raised money for her, along with starting a meal tree to provide dinner for both Harding and her husband.