Teacher donates entire $185k prize to students

A US teacher has pocketed nearly $200,000 in prize money only to donate it to her students this Christmas.

Nikki Bollerman, from Dorchester, Boston, entered the online #WishForOthers contest last month in the hopes that her UP Academy students could each take home a new book over the holidays.

"My #WishForOthers is that my voracious, adorable, hardworking, loving scholars all leave for their December break with a book in their hand," her entry read.

"Their love for reading and life is contagious and I would love for them to have the gift of a book they love to read over (the) break."

The competition's organisers, Capital One, were so moved by Ms Bollerman's plea they decided to gift each student three books and their teacher an additional $185,000 prize.

A YouTube video shows the students' heart-warming reactions as Ms Bollerman announces the entire winnings will go to the school.

"To me there was no other real option," she told WBUR.

"I mean, I wished for it for the kids. Where else would it go other than them?"

Ms Bollerman said they were yet to decide what exactly the funds would be spent on, but computers and a greenhouse were on the shortlist.

Her "hard work and generosity" was applauded by Boston's mayor Marty Walsh, who told WBUR she set a "shining example" for her students.

"I want to thank Nikki for your kindness and humility," he said.

"We are grateful for your hard work and generosity. You have inspired lots of people with your selfless act."