Van Looney

Van Looney is a dedicated Middle and Upper School Math Teacher and Theater Director at Spring Valley School. He earned his degree from Birmingham-Southern College and graduated from Vestavia Hills High School. As a theater director, Van has led successful productions such as Mary Poppins Jr., Addams Family (Young @ Part), Check Please, Peter Pan Jr., and is currently preparing for Little Shop of Horrors.

In addition to his roles in education and theater, Van enjoys TV, movies, anime, comics, and video games. He finds fulfillment in seeing his students embrace their diagnoses openly, noting how the shame and shyness they once felt quickly fade in Spring Valley’s supportive environment. Watching his students come out of their shells and form strong friendships is one of his favorite parts of teaching.

Van loves how bright and motivated his students are, often figuring out math problems or puzzles before he can. His students thrive in his theater class, and last year they particularly enjoyed working on a one-act play, which they performed proudly in front of their families and peers. Van advocates for the understanding that his students are neither "dumb" nor "lazy"—they are eager learners who simply need the right environment to shine. He appreciates the flexibility Spring Valley offers, providing extra time for students to master topics at their own pace.

Outside the classroom, Van enjoys beatboxing, adding a fun and unique flair to his interactions with students. He is passionate about supporting and encouraging his students both academically and creatively, helping them grow in confidence and capability.