In the 2023 elementary teacher contest, Insite Media named Mrs. Christy Walker of International Leadership of Texas K-8, or ILTexas, in College Station as the 2023 Top Elementary Teacher of the Brazos Valley.
Drawn by their motto that emphasizes ‘others before self,’ Walker joined the ILTexas College Station team upon its opening in 2018. After working her first year as an instructional assistant, Walker transitioned to teaching elementary math to build deeper connections with both students and colleagues.
“Mrs. Walker is extremely hard working,” says Zachary Bolzan, principal of ILTexas College Station. “She is flexible and willing to do whatever it takes to educate our elementary school students in math. She's just one of those people that works really hard and rises to the occasion and does what she needs to do to make sure the kids' learning is her priority.”
With an outgoing personality and an evident passion for teaching, Walker stands out as someone who accomplishes her goals regardless of the circumstances. This year, Walker’s parents have both been battling cancer, and despite the hardships she continues to flourish in the classroom.
“It’s always clear that she loves what she does,” says Amanda Krueger, assistant principal for 3rd through 5th grade. “The kids love to go to her class because she's having fun; she's joking around, she's making math fun for them. She does a really good job of building relationships with kids, for sure. They know that she cares about them and that she's there to advocate for them, hold them accountable and help them reach higher expectations.”
Walker’s administration and staff surprised her with the announcement of her award along with her twin sister, one of her closest supporters. Walker says she was so honored to have been chosen as the elementary honoree for 2023.
“It's a sweet surprise, especially because there are so many people that could be considered top teachers because it truly takes all of us to do our part together,” Walker says. “From the first time I walked into ILTexas I’ve joked that it feels like going to church — maybe you're not related to everyone, but you definitely feel at home, you feel connected to every single person. Everybody plays a part and we all come together, and it's the same thing here; it's a huge support system.”
Insite Media presented Mrs. Walker with a plaque from its parent company, Integ, and a gift basket featuring gift cards from Wings’N More, Zeitman’s Grocery Store, Shipwreck Grill, Amico Nave and Dixie Chicken; gift certificates from 7F Lodge, DeGallery and HotWorx; OPAS show tickets, mug, stationary and potted plant from Integ, candle from Heartworks and wine from Messina Hof.
A huge thank you to all the businesses who donated prizes for the gift basket. Congratulations again to Mrs. Walker and to ILTexas College Station K-8!
