Seventh-Grader’s Back-to-School Photo Comes with a Shocking Surprise
A young girl in Auburn, Alabama, recently had an unexpected guest appear in her school portrait.
Brooke Mills, a seventh-grader, wanted to commemorate the end of summer and the start of a new school year with a special photo. Her mother, ShaneJoy Mills, was the one behind the camera, capturing the moment.
Back-to-School Traditions and Meaning
The first day of school is often a memorable occasion, marking a fresh start, a new grade, and sometimes a more challenging course load. For parents, it’s an emotional moment, watching their children grow more independent and take on new responsibilities.
When I was younger, my mom always took a picture of me at the start of each school year. At the time, I found it inconvenient and sometimes embarrassing. But looking back, I now understand why she did it—it’s a beautiful way to celebrate a child’s growth and milestones. These photos become cherished memories, allowing families to reflect on past school years.
A Closer Look: “It Was Terrifying!”
However, this year’s back-to-school photo session took an unexpected turn for ShaneJoy Mills.
At first glance, Brooke’s picture seemed like an ordinary, sweet portrait. But when her mother looked closer, she was stunned by what she saw.
“Lord, it was terrifying!” Mills told WRBL. “I had asked Brooke to show her teeth for the picture, and then I noticed it—the snake!”
ShaneJoy recalled the moment she realized something was wrong.
“Brooke gave me a look like she wasn’t done taking pictures when I suddenly said, ‘Come here!’ Then I told her, ‘Brooke, step away from the tree now.’ I kept my voice calm, but I think my face said it all.”
The snake, well-camouflaged against the tree bark, was nearly invisible at first glance. Some commenters on ShaneJoy’s Facebook post identified it as a rat snake, which appeared to have eaten recently.
The Viral Reaction
Since being posted, the photo has been shared hundreds of times, with social media users reacting in shock and amusement. Luckily, in this unexpected back-to-school moment, the only thing the snake wanted to “strike” was a pose!
As Brooke embarks on seventh grade, it seems she had an uninvited classmate eager to join her. Fortunately, she was completely unharmed—though it’s a picture she won’t forget anytime soon!
What Would You Do?
If you were in this mother and daughter’s shoes, how would you react? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
