South LA teacher Bridgette Donald-Blue temporarily replaces Vanna White on Wheel of Fortune

SOUTH LOS ANGELES (KABC) – Wheel of Fortune viewers noticed that she was significantly absent from the game show this week – Vanna White was missing, and now we know why.

The TV star had to miss a day of filming in August during which several episodes of the show were recorded because she was ill with COVID-19.

But Wheel was able to find a suitable replacement for Teachers Week – Bridgette Donald-Blue, the 2023 California Teacher of the Year.

Donald-Blue, an educator for three decades, teaches at Coliseum Street Elementary in South Los Angeles.

Math may be her subject, but she proved she’s a natural with words when she turned to the puzzle board.

White is expected to return to air next week.