SAN ANGELO, Texas — Whataburger honored San Angelo Lake View High School chemistry teacher Rachal Brewster for her recognition as a Whataburger “WHATAteacher” for going above and beyond to make a difference with her students and on the Lake View campus.
Thursday morning, Whataburger representative Sarah Marston and area and local store leaders and team members surprised Brewster with the award and a $1,000 teacher grant at the high school, where she was joined by fellow staff members and students.
“Whataburger is proud to help celebrate teachers who are key to our children’s success, keeping them on the path to bright futures right here in San Angelo, Texas,” Whataburger Area Manager for San Angelo and Brownwood, David Boney, said in a press release from the San Angelo Independent School District.
Brewster teaches chemistry, including Pre-AP, honors and dual-credit courses, leads the LVHS Science UIL team and coaches shot put and discus. The release said she is also recognized as an excellent collaborator and leader who immediately sought out innovative strategies to engage students and help them to continue to grow and learn during the early stages of the pandemic.
Brewster was recognized for building rapport with each student, making each student feel appreciated for their unique interests and talents - a true exemplification of a SAISD Difference Maker, the release said.
“Ms. Brewster puts her entire heart into supporting her students’ success, both in her chemistry classroom and on the track field,” LVHS Principal Zach Ramirez said. “With her commitment, she models the motivation required to achieve success at the highest level, and her students trust her with their athletic and life goals because of the passion she has for making a difference in her students’ lives.”
Ramirez credits Brewster with inspiring students to overcome obstacles such as poverty to earn chemistry college hours while in high school, noting she “tirelessly commits” and “allows our students opportunities to prepare themselves for a better future.”
“I am humbled by this morning and extremely grateful to Whataburger for the award, because it will help us in the Chemistry department to continue to add probe ware for data collection for the student's benefit while conducting labs,” Brewster said in the release. “Also, thank you to Whataburger for brightening our day with all the joy they brought. I am beyond blessed by my coworkers. I love working here at Lake View with my colleagues who bring positive energy every day and support one another through all types of obstacles.”
Brewster said an important role model for her as a chemistry and throwers coach is her father adding that “[he] has provided me with so much support to become the teacher and coach that I am. Teaching is joyous because of the students that come in each day looking forward to learning, especially in labs. I am blessed by the support system I have here, and thankful every day for my family and friends who enrich my life.”
In addition to the WHATAteacher recognition, Whataburger has been supporting educators across our community this week for Teacher Appreciation Week and in support of SAISD Difference Maker Day Friday, May 6.
SAISD teachers are able to enjoy a free breakfast item from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. through Friday. In advance of the celebration of SAISD Difference Maker Day, all Lake View High School staff were treated to a breakfast by Whataburger Thursday.
"Congratulations to Ms. Brewster, our LVHS WHATAteacher, and thank you for all you do to positively impact the lives of our students. Our people truly make the difference," the SAISD release said.
