Mrs. Chrestman was among 8 teachers from Northeast Mississippi selected to receive a grant from Room to Room for their classroom needs.
A nomination for Mrs. Chrestman read, “ Rachel Chrestman teaches at DT Cox Elementary in Pontotoc. She teaches English language learners, which includes all non English speaking kids in the school. She deserves this grant because she spends so much of her time outside of school going to children's homes to help interpret or assist with their basic needs, helping them with finding clothes, food, washers, dryers etc. She collects items and money for these kids and their families for Christmas. She contributes a large amount of her own money for these things as well.
She pours her heart and soul into every student, making sure they are as prepared for school and state testing as possible. It's pretty difficult for a child to pass a difficult state test when English is not their first language. She tutors outside of school hours (for free) to accomplish these things. She's the most deserving teacher I know.”