Moore’s Crystal Bonds
By Elizabeth Contreras
Moore High School’s Teacher of the Year, Crystal Bonds, has built her career on one foundational belief: students thrive when they know they matter. Now in her 13th year of teaching, Bonds has become a cornerstone of the MHS community, teaching 6 different classes, advising yearbook staff, coordinating site social media, and shaping a learning environment rooted in support, confidence, and connection.
Her path to education was inspired by those who invested in her life, an honor she now pays forward.
“I became a teacher because of the people who poured into me and changed the direction of my life,” Bonds said. “All of them made me want to do the same for future generations.”
Before joining MHS, Bonds spent 15 years as a manicurist, a career that unexpectedly prepared her for education. The daily practice of listening, connecting, and serving others helped shape the relationship-centered classroom she leads today. When she arrived at Moore High School, she knew she had found her home.
The culture of support and collaboration at MHS, and the love for her students, keep Bonds in the classroom year after year.
“They are resilient, creative, and full of potential,” Bonds shared. “Being part of their journey is a gift.”
Balancing her many roles on campus requires structure, clear systems, and trust. Bonds empowers her yearbook students to take ownership of real publication responsibilities, helping them grow into confident photographers, writers, and designers. Watching their transformation remains one of her favorite parts of teaching.
On challenging days, her motivation comes from the students she serves.
“Even on the hardest days, there’s always a moment — a conversation, a breakthrough, a small success — that reminds me why this work matters,” Bonds explained. Her husband, children, and grandchildren also play an important role in keeping her grounded.
Ultimately, Bonds hopes every student who enters her classroom walks away knowing that they are capable of more than they realize.
“I want them to leave my class believing they are capable, creative, and worthy of wonderful opportunities,” she said.
Through her leadership, creativity, and absolute confidence in her students, Bonds continues to shape not just skills and yearbooks, but the future lives of her students and the beating heart of Moore High School.
