The Jefferson City School District has hired an experienced elementary school teacher as the new administrative intern at Lawson Elementary School.
As administrative intern, Crystal Tyus will support the building principal in building management, curriculum, instruction and assessment. The position is a full-time position with a yearly contract, and the intern serves like a principal in training or assistant principal.
Tyus has 17 years of experience in education, mostly as an elementary teacher, according to a news release from JC Schools.
"One of my goals is to ensure a culture of continuous improvement for students and teachers at Lawson Elementary," Tyus said in the news release. "I'm also determined to develop an environment that encourages open communication with parents, students, colleagues and the community."
Tyus began her teaching career in 2003 at Decatur Public Schools in Decatur, Illinois. She then worked as a student advocate at Columbia Public Schools, where she worked with students and their families and helped the principal address discipline issues. In 2010, she returned to the classroom and taught elementary students at Columbia Public Schools for the next decade.
Tyus earned her bachelor of science in elementary education from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, in 2001. She holds a master of science degree in education administration from Eastern Illinois University and an educational specialist degree from William Woods University.
"Those who have previously worked with Crystal describe her as a dedicated and passionate educator who strives to connect with students and families," said Lorie Rost, JC Schools assistant superintendent of elementary education, in the release. "She is a people-person and does a fantastic job forming strong relationships. Crystal is innovative, and she's a go-getter when it comes to helping students and staff be successful."
Lawson Principal Patricia Tavenner said she's excited for Tyus to join the Lawson team.
"The expertise she has in working with students who are in need of a helping hand is a quality that quickly shines through," she said in the release. "Her positive attitude, and the drive she brings to this role, shows the passion she has for helping others and doing what is best for kids."