Teachers don’t get enough credit for what they do, and that’s a fact.
Luckily, Red Rock Nissan noticed the efforts, passion, and work one of our Palisade teachers puts in everyday. Crystal Green is a CCP (college and career prep) coordinator and everyday, she shines in the classroom as she helps students find where their passions may lie within their future careers. At the beginning of this month, she won one of the six White Ice Awards from the D51 foundation. Mrs. Green was chosen based on key factors including community involvement, academic growth and achievement, and the leadership she exhibits within the school. Her win was celebrated at the annual White Ice Gala where she was surprised with a new car!
“A gentleman from Red Rock Nissan Auto Group handed all of us winners a white box with a white bow on top,” Mrs. Green says. Inside the box was none other than a set of car keys. “They gave all of us a paid up-front two year lease on a brand new Nissan Leaf.”
When reminiscing about the moment, Green says, “I was in total shock. I would say I was speechless for at least an hour.” Green gave a speech later that evening and compared the moment to one you see on a game show. “You definitely don’t ever think that something like that is going to happen to you. It feels like a lot because, granted, this is my job. It feels like a really big gesture but I definitely was totally surprised.”
This is Green’s third year at Palisade High School. Within her role, Green helps students find internships and make connections with the workforce. She also runs and oversees the Pathways program. “I appreciate my position here,” Green exclaims. “Two years ago this position didn’t exist. But after looking at my resume, Mr. Bollinger (principal) asked if I would start these programs. I really feel like we reached a point where the Pathways are up and running and they’re successful. I really appreciate Mr. Bollinger and Mr. Hayward for helping me and believing in me and allowing me to do such a cool job.”
Green continues to be very humble even after this win. “I am very grateful for this and definitely wasn’t expecting it. Ultimately, the gesture I hope resonates with everyone in the community is that the appreciation for teachers is widespread because we do a lot of things that are even beyond the classroom. I hope people recognize teachers and the hard work they do everyday.”
Behind every great student is a teacher who helped them get there. We want to thank Mrs. Green for everything she has brought to the school, this was well deserved and we appreciate you!
