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Holmes Community College alumna Haley Crenshaw was named 2020-21 Teacher of the Year for both Bentonia Gibbs Elementary School and for the Yazoo County School District. A native of Brandon, she graduated from the Holmes Ridgeland Campus as an elementary education major in May of 2014.
“Being awarded Teacher of the Year is something that I only dreamed of one day happening during my teaching career,” Crenshaw said. “When I found out that I had been selected as the 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year for Bentonia Gibbs, I felt honored. I work alongside some of the best teachers. Winning District Teacher of the Year for Yazoo County School District was such a surprise, but something I am so grateful for. I truly love my job and the ability I have to make a positive impact on every child’s life. I am so thankful to have the best mentors that have helped shape me and helped me grow as an educator.”
While at Holmes, Crenshaw was extremely active on campus. For two years, she served as an Ambassador and a Student Government Association representative. She was also a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society, a member of the Vice President’s Leadership Class in 2013 and a participant in Beauty Review where she was selected as a Beauty both years. Additionally, Crenshaw was a Sophomore Maid on Homecoming Court, selected as a Class Favorite in 2013 and inducted into the Holmes Hall of Fame in 2014.
“My time spent a Holmes is something that I will forever cherish,” Crenshaw said. “Attending Holmes provided me with lifelong memories and friendships.”
Mathematics instructor Stephanie Blue, who served as Crenshaw’s academic adviser while at Holmes, said it was no surprise she received these honors.
“I was so proud to see Haley receive Teacher of the Year,” said mathematics instructor Stephanie Blue. “While at Holmes, she was very involved and a super hard worker. I was not at all surprised by this fantastic recognition!”
Upon graduation from Holmes, Crenshaw transferred to the University of Mississippi where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with endorsements in K-12 English and history as well as a mild-to-moderate special education endorsement. She also earned her master’s in curriculum and instructor from Ole Miss in 2018 with a gifted endorsement.
Crenshaw has been teaching at Bentonia Gibbs Elementary for five years. She taught second grade reading for two years and she is now in her third year of teaching third grade reading. She attends Fondren Church and in her free time, enjoys traveling, painting and playing with her dog Sadie. Crenshaw and her fiancé, Mitch Hall, plan to wed in June. They reside in Bentonia with Sadie and their two cats, Milo and Callie.
For more information about Holmes’ educational programs, contact Educational Programs Coordinator Wendy Grace at wgrace@holmescc.edu or (662) 472-9072.
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