Crystal has a 17-year tenure in school and district-level leadership, where she also worked in the Continuous Improvement Office within the division of Curriculum and Instruction. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Georgia State University, a Master's degree from Brenau University, and a leadership degree from the University of Georgia. She is a former third grade teacher, former assistant principal, and former principal of an ArtsNOW Teaching and Learning Laboratory School. Crystal resides in Atlanta and enjoys boating, spending time with friends, and traveling.