WESTON, Conn. Ask anyone within the school district who their favorite teacher is and chances are they will tell you its Crystal Brooks, a fourth-grade teacher at Weston Intermediate School. She is just an amazing teacher and the teacher that everyone wants to have, said First Selectman Gayle Weinstein.
Teaching isnt just a job for Brooks, its a passion, Most times, I forget that I get paid to do this, she said, which is exactly why she was nominated for Teacher of the Year within the Weston Public School District.
When Brooks was a girl she wanted to join the U.S. Coast Guard. But when she was 12 and teaching Sunday school in her home state of West Virginia, she got the itch to teach. That is when I realized this is what I wanted to do. I am one of those people who truly and genuinely love kids, Brooks said.
She and her family had limited resources for college; in fact, she was the first person in her family to graduate. Higher learning was a way to really just get out of West Virginia, Brooks said. After she graduated from college at the top of her class, Brooks worked a few odd jobs in Connecticut but soon found a teaching position. After 14 years, she hasnt looked back.
Her philosophy on teaching has always been that the students are the most important part. It is my job to provide these kids with whatever learning tools they need, and I will do whatever I need to do to make that happen.
That dedication is what makes Brooks so special in the school district, Superintendent Colleen Palmer said. I can proudly say that a number of individual parents have made the effort to contact my office directly to let me know how pleased they are with their childs experience with Crystal. Perceptions are realities, and for Crystals students, they perceive a tireless, enthusiastic, encouraging professional that supports their growth with caring but high expectations.
When asked how she felt about her award, Brooks said, Honestly, I am just honored and very overwhelmed to think that people see me as teacher of the year. I feel like I have the weight of the entire Weston world on my shoulders.
Brooks also said her award couldnt have happened without the help of her peers. I have awesome students, awesome parents and the administrators are absolute wonderful. Its a great feeling.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Westport and receive free news updates.