mrs. Whatley with her students

Van Junior High is thrilled to announce Mrs. Crystal Whatley as the 2023- 2024 Teacher of the Year for our campus! As an 8th-grade science teacher, Mrs. Whatley embodies a deep passion for education and a genuine love for her students' success.

In one of the nominations, the comment was made that, "Mrs. Whatley pours her heart and soul into her kids and her job! She's a bright light at this campus!"

Mr. Whitten, VJH principal, said, "Crystal Whatley is a one-of-a-kind teacher who takes every student's success personally. She is passionate about her content and the academic growth of each of her students. She is a team leader who goes above and beyond to help support her colleagues, and is committed to the vision of Van Junior High and Van ISD as an academic powerhouse.”

Mrs. Whatley was completely surprised and overcome with emotion when the district presented her with a bouquet of flowers from our high school floral design students, a yard sign, a plaque, and a $1,000 check from the Van ISD Education Foundation!

We are thankful to have Mrs. Whatley representing the VJH campus as Teacher of the Year!

Mrs. Whatley cries and she is presented with an award