Teacher Spotlight: Ms. Crasi

By VCS Senior Ashley Gonzalez

Starting at a new school can be challenging, but for Ms. Crasi, her first year teaching English has been a rewarding experience. Although teaching was not originally part of her plan, she has quickly become a valued member of the Valley Christian community.

Ms. Crasi did not always see herself as a teacher. When she went to college, her goal was to become a book publisher or editor and eventually write children’s books. She attended the University of Akron, where she majored in English and minored in creative writing, popular literature, and film. While she originally planned to move out of state after graduating, life took a different direction. As she explains, God had a different plan, which eventually led her to apply for a teaching position at Valley Christian.

Even though teaching was not her original career goal, English has always been her strongest subject. “I chose to teach English because that is what I am skilled at,” she said, noting that subjects like math and science were never her strengths growing up. But when it comes to English, she says confidently, “English, I know!”

Outside the classroom, Ms. Crasi enjoys a variety of hobbies. She loves reading, baking, crafting, thrifting, gardening, and decorating her home for holidays. Most importantly, she enjoys spending time with her children, Beau and Eloise.

Not surprisingly, reading is a big part of her life. Her favorite book is Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. If she could live in any fictional world, she would choose the Tiger’s Curse series by Colleen Houck—an action-packed story set in India about two brothers cursed to live as tigers until a girl begins to break the spell.

When it comes to fictional characters, Ms. Crasi says she relates most to Junie B. Jones. She admires how the character is unapologetically herself—sassy, loud, impulsive, yet also kind and lovable.

In the classroom, Ms. Crasi hopes students understand that they are capable of success if they put in the effort. “They are fully capable of doing the work,” she said. “They just need to apply themselves, ask questions, and listen.”

Her biggest piece of writing advice is simple but powerful: just start. According to Ms. Crasi, beginning a piece of writing is often the hardest part. Once students get their ideas on the page, they can always revise for spelling, punctuation, and formatting later.

For students who struggle with English, she encourages practice and patience. Whether it is writing, editing, or reading, improvement comes from consistent effort and a willingness to keep trying.

Reflecting on her first year at Valley Christian, Ms. Crasi describes the experience as amazing. She appreciates the supportive staff and students and is grateful for the opportunity to be part of the school community.

Through her passion for reading, writing, and helping students grow, Ms. Crasi is already making a meaningful impact in the classroom.