teacher surprised as she's named teacher of the year

Van ISD was filled with smiles, cheers, and a few happy tears on Monday as the district celebrated its 2024-2025 Teachers and Employees of the Year. This year, we honored eight outstanding employees with a surprise visit, where they received a plaque, a yard sign, and a $1,000 check from the Van ISD Education Foundation in recognition of their hard work and dedication.

This year's honorees include:

  • Courtney Batres – J.E. Rhodes Elementary

  • Lori Thomas – Van Intermediate School

  • Yalonda Perkins – Van Middle School

  • Jamie Young – Van Junior High

  • Carrie Hudson – Van High School

  • Mandy Thedford – Paraprofessional of the Year

  • Wayne Purkey – Auxiliary Employee of the Year

  • Berny Duke – Non-Teaching Professional of the Year

Each of these individuals plays a vital role in making Van ISD a great place to learn and work. Their commitment to students, colleagues, and the community is what sets them apart.

Van ISD is proud to recognize these dedicated educators and staff members and is thankful for the Van ISD Education Foundation for helping make this celebration possible.

Congratulations to our 2024-2025 Teachers and Employees of the Year!

Berny DukeJamie YoungLori ThomasCarrie HudsonYaLonda PerkinsMandy ThedfordCourtney BatresWayne Purkey