Crystal Houser

Experienced educational leader with 29 years of service dedicated to improving student outcomes through innovative instruction, strong community partnerships, and strategic school leadership. Proven success in school turnaround, specialty and choice program development, and district-level performance initiatives. Licensed K–12 Principal and Curriculum & Instruction Specialist with a background in science education, committed to developing the whole student, cultivating future leaders, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning that strengthens schools and communities.

Educational leader with extensive experience at the district, high school, and middle school levels, currently serving as Executive Director of School Performance for a large urban district. Oversees 18 specialty schools, including Magnet, Montessori, Early College, and Middle College programs, while leading districtwide initiatives focused on instructional impact, career readiness, and leadership development. Provides coaching and professional development for principals and assistant principals and contributes to district strategic planning through the Theory of Change Professional Development Committee.

Previously served as a high school and middle school principal with a strong record of school improvement and turnaround leadership, successfully moving multiple schools out of low-performing status within one academic year. Led the development of innovative safety protocols, restorative discipline programs, leadership pathways, and remediation initiatives to support at-risk students. Established choice programs, accelerated curricula, and dual-enrollment partnerships with colleges and NCSSM to expand student access and rigor.

Earlier experience includes assistant principal leadership, program facilitation for enrichment and environmental education initiatives, and a decade as a science educator teaching AP Environmental Science and AP Chemistry. Recognized for pioneering distance learning programs and coaching championship-level athletic teams, bringing a well-rounded, student-centered approach to educational leadership.

Master of School Administration with a specialization in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, completed through the competitive Principal Fellows Program. Holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Studies, along with post-baccalaureate certification and licensure in Comprehensive Science Education (Grades 9–12). Academic preparation reflects a strong foundation in instructional leadership, curriculum design, and secondary science education.