‘I will never forget her’: S.A. remembers East Central’s Whitney Weddel

La’Darian Franklin, a former student of Weddel’s, described the beloved teacher as his “school mom” and “one of the best” teachers a student could ever ask for.

“Ms.Weddel was one of the best authentic teachers a student could ask for. I’ve been knowing her since my freshman year of High school. I didn’t even have her as a teacher then and I would just go to her class and she accepted me with open arms,” Franklin said on Weddel’s obituary. “She put her heart and soul into teaching, and you could see it. She would have her classes paint rocks so she could remember us by them. She is the one of the reasons I’m still in nursing school and succeeding, anytime I face a problem in school, I think, what would Ms.Weddel say. She was my school mom, always on me about being on time, doing my best, and staying positive. Back then, I would always say, “Ms.Weddel, I haven’t done anything, Why are you on my case?” She would say, “Exactly La’Darian, I know you and you’re doing the bare minimum, You’re so smart and can do much better than this.” I definitely am better because of her. It was never a time where Ms.Weddel wasn’t saying my name making sure I’m doing my best. I know I gave her a run for her money, but she always stuck beside me and made sure to let me know, she loved me. She always wanted me to reach for the stars and reach my full potential. I will never forget her, and I love and appreciate her so much! She definitely made my High school experience unforgettable and I will carry her with me for the rest of my life.”

In 2022, KENS 5 put a spotlight on Weddel, showcasing her passion for teaching the younger generation. During the two-minute video, Weddel talked about her journey in education up to this point. And how she could never “picture doing anything but teaching.”

East Central ISD themselves released a statement once news of Weddel’s sudden passing went public, saying:

“Whitney Weddel was an East Central High School graduate and, after that, an exceptional teacher in our district. She was beloved by her students and admired by her colleagues,” the statement reads. “Whitney’s impact was far-reaching and will continue for generations to come as she has dozens of former students working as healthcare professionals across our city and beyond. ECISD is grateful for her impeccable service and is deeply saddened by her passing.”

The driver that reportedly caused the three-vehicle crash that led to Weddel’s death was arrested on Friday, February 9. Giovanna Blangiardo, 35, was charged with intoxication manslaughter, according to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. According to KENS, Blangiardo posted bail on a $250,000 bond and was released Friday. She’s due in court on March 13.