COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley surprised second-graders at a Columbia school as the "very important" guest of an 8-year-old student.

Haley told the class at Satchel Ford Elementary on Friday that she's proud of them and wants them to be successful. Haley was there for the school's "very important people" day. Parents and grandparents who were already in the classroom were as excited as the kids to see their new governor.

Haley was the surprise guest of Sally Branton Crawford, the daughter of Haley's campaign adviser Marisa Crawford.

An excited Sally said it was the best thing that's ever happened to her.

The children surrounded Haley, as they asked for autographs, received hugs and took pictures.

Haley said the school is an example of great public education in the state.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)