Crissy Cantley, an Option Pathway teacher at South Charleston High School in Kanawha County, earned West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s February 2026 Above and Beyond Award, which honors the excellence and creativity of Mountain State teachers. The award, presented by WVPB’s Education team, was given during a surprise visit to her school. Cantley received a monetary award along with a Blenko Glass apple paperweight. The West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office, presenter of the SMART529 college savings program, proudly sponsors the award.
Cantley works closely with students who are at risk of not graduating on time, helping them stay on track for success. According to her husband and nominator, Jeff Cantley, she “gives students the skills and the motivation necessary to strive for success and walk that stage with their class,” while maintaining communication with families so they stay informed and involved.
Photo Credit: Brittany McGuire/West Virginia Public Broadcasting
Her impact extends across the school community. Cantley serves as a student assistance coordinator, mentors students beyond her classes and organizes major events like prom. She also sponsors the Helping Hearts community service club and leads initiatives such as connecting students with nursing home residents through weekly letters.
Students say what sets Cantley apart is the environment she creates. “She’s the kind of adult you actually feel safe talking to,” wrote student nominator Annemarie Hersh, who described her classroom as calm and respectful. “If you’re struggling, she talks to you privately and helps you figure things out instead of giving up on you.”
Cantley is intentional about building those relationships. “Creating a safe and respectful classroom starts with relationships,” she said. “I make it a priority to truly get to know my students through their strengths, their challenges and their stories, so they know they are seen as more than just a name on a roster.”
Her teaching emphasizes real-world application. From financial literacy to everyday life skills, Cantley ensures students are prepared for life beyond high school. “I teach many students who are preparing to enter the workforce or navigate life beyond high school in nontraditional ways, so I feel a strong responsibility to equip them with skills they will actually use,” she said.
Hersh noted that Cantley’s lessons “make sense in real life” and help build confidence, encouraging students to give their best effort because they know she believes in them.
Photo Credit: Brittany McGuire/West Virginia Public Broadcasting
Outside the classroom, Cantley supports her students in meaningful ways. She attends games and events, helps coordinate dances and assists students in need. Hersh shared that Cantley has provided food, clothing and other essentials without seeking recognition. “She never brags about it or calls attention to it. She just makes sure people are taken care of,” she wrote.
For Cantley, the heart of her work lies in helping students believe in themselves. “More than anything, I hope my students leave with confidence in themselves,” she said. “I want them to know they are capable, resilient and worthy of success, no matter the path they take.”
That message resonates deeply with her students and community. As Hersh wrote, “Because of teachers like her, students feel seen. We feel supported. And we feel like we matter, not just in school, but in life.”
Each month of the school year, West Virginia Public Broadcasting honors a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students. Community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding educators who inspire and support learners across West Virginia. If you know of a deserving teacher who goes “Above and Beyond,” please click here to nominate them.
