When you visit Crockett Early College High School, you walk into an atmosphere that is committed to equity, supportive relationships, quality teaching and learning, and a sense of belonging. These qualities were stewarded by Principal Kori Crawford which led her to earn the Champions for School Climate award by the Aspen Institute Education & Society Program.

“I am truly humbled and honored to receive this award,” said Principal Kori Crawford. “The Crockett staff has spent the last few years educating our community on our PRIDE Core Values of peace, resilience, integrity, diversity, and engagement and collaborating with the district’s Cultural Proficiency and Inclusiveness, and Social Emotional Learning departments to provide engaging, relevant, and meaningful professional learning opportunities that has directly impacted our school culture and climate.”

Crockett ECHS collects school climate data through surveys and student panels. After reviewing this data, administrators and students created a SOAR class, which addresses issues of race and racism at Crockett and Austin ISD.

"Principal Crawford understand the need for both school culture and climate," said Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde. "She makes it a point to listen to students, parents and staff, and collaborates with her school community to keep a laser focus on academic student outcomes. She also knows that through social emotional learning and inclusivity, the highest potential for student achievement is attained. Principal Crawford creates an environment so that every student is prepared with the knowledge and skills to thrive in college, career and life."

Champions and finalists will receive an award from Aspen Education to fund school climate initiatives in their school. The Champions for School Climate Award is part of Aspen Education’s efforts to highlight effective public school principals who use school climate data to improve their schools.