Friday, May 10, 2019

Joplin R-8 names Justin Crawford director of educational support and human resources

(From Joplin Schools)

Joplin Schools is pleased to announce Mr. Justin Crawford as the Director of Educational Support and Human Resources.

Crawford has worked in education for over 15 years helping low-performing students achieve success. During that time, he has been a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and professional developer, specializing in at-risk students, dropout prevention and technology integration.

Crawford commented, “It feels like I’m coming home! I worked in Joplin Schools for over a decade and am honored and humbled to serve the community and district in a new capacity. I am excited about embarking on this new journey and hope to renew old acquaintances and make new ones alike.”

Crawford began as a classroom teacher that worked with Joplin High School’s at-risk student population. In 2009, he helped develop Joplin’s Flex Program to curb the Joplin High School dropout rate. To date, the FLEX program continues to help students at Joplin High School receive their high school diplomas and walk across the stage at graduation.








Crawford is an eMINTS certified teacher specializing in technology-rich learning environments. After becoming eMints certified he began pushing the edges of technology use in the classroom. During his tenure at Joplin Schools, Crawford became an integral part of the team that led technology integration and launched Joplin School's one-to-one initiative after the May 2011 tornado. Crawford was instrumental in Joplin High School being named as an Apple Distinguished School in 2013 and then again in 2015.

Crawford worked as an instructional coach in the district and later as the eLearning Coordinator. As the eLearning Coordinator, he helped launch and maintain a 5,000 plus user learning management system, and led teachers in course creation and curriculum development.

Crawford left Joplin Schools in the fall of 2015 to pursue his Juris Doctor degree. Upon completion of his Juris Doctor in December of 2017, he successfully passed the bar and was licensed to practice law in Missouri and Kansas, as well as being admitted to numerous courts. He is excited to apply his vast educational experience and legal knowledge as an administrator for Joplin Schools.








"Justin built strong positive relationships with Joplin Schools through his past instructional service to our District. Now, having successfully completed law school and passing the bar, he adds his legal acumen to an already strong foundation of educational knowledge and familiarity with our own Eagle Nation. We are excited to welcome Justin back to Joplin Schools,” stated Dr. Moss, superintendent.

Crawford holds a masters degree in Education Administration from William Woods University, as well as his Juris Doctor from Washburn University School of Law. He has presented at national, regional, and local professional development events.

Crawford will begin his new role on July 1, 2019. Congratulations Mr. Crawford! Eagle Nation is ready to welcome you back home and gain from your knowledge and expertise.

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