Biography
Dr. Crystal serves as an instructor and dissertation chair for the GSE EdD program teaching foundational and research courses as well as overseeing the Innovative Teaching and Learning concentration.
Programs Affiliated: Graduate School of Education EdD program
Teaching and Research Focus Area:
Her research interests include creating authentic and meaningful professional learning experiences for educators, coaching as a lever for change, and design thinking with a focus on universally designed learning experiences. She is enthusiastic about the role of coaching and embedded professional learning as transformational to school leadership and instruction along with the authentic application of universally designed project- and problem-based learning experiences. Dr. Crystal is also a proponent of the use of video as a powerful tool for reflective practice. She is currently researching the impact of teacher-directed evaluation systems on teachers and students.
Professional Background:
Dr. Crystal has previously worked as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, building leader, curriculum supervisor, and most recently as the assistant superintendent of a mid-sized K-12 public school district. She has also been an instructor in the University of Connecticut NEAG School of Education’s Principal Preparation Program (UCAPP) as well as in the University of St. Joseph’s master’s degree in education program.
Education:
- Last Degree: EdD in Teaching and Learning
- Academic Background: Elementary Education Certification; Administrator Certification; Masters Degree in Psychology – Teachers College, Columbia University; Doctorate in Teaching and Learning – American International College
