It’s been an exciting year so far for Christine Elberson, a history teacher of 19 years at Bensalem High School.
In March, Elberson was named the 2024 Teacher of the Year — an annual award program launched at BHS in 2022, which singles out an exemplary educator and gets students, faculty and administrators involved in the multi-round selection process. This month, Elberson received a second accolade when she was honored by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick as a Hometown Hero.
This distinction is given to one outstanding community member each week, with Elberson’s recognition marking the culmination of Teacher Appreciation Week. She received a U.S. flag that was flown over the Capitol and a proclamation from the congressman.
“Known for her uncanny ability to develop meaningful relationships, Chrissy has mastered the balance of truly caring for her students while letting them know the importance of accountability,” said Fitzpatrick. “In her classroom, she instills confidence, inspires curiosity, provides enriching guidance, and challenges her students to seize every opportunity with a positive and joyful attitude.”
Fitzpatrick also shared a quote from Elberson’s colleague, Elena Toselli, the 2023 Teacher of the Year awardee: “Chrissy is the teacher kids come back and visit time after time — she’s one of those teachers who students will remember years from now because she made them feel valued and shaped who they were.”
Elberson completed her student teaching at BHS and quickly viewed it as her second home. Two decades later, she’s happy to still be there shaping young minds.
“I just had such a great experience here. It’s really the only school and home I know, so I just never left because it is the best place to be,” she said. “These kids are just so loving and wonderful, it is my home away from home when I’m here.”
