Krista Purnell
Krista Purnell began her career as an educator as a 5th grade math teacher in Newark Public Schools. After her time in NPS, she continued her teaching practice at North Star Academy where she taught 6th grade math and 8th grade Algebra, learning and executing a variety of high leverage techniques which led to her students’ high rates of success on the NJASK. After her tenure at North Star, Krista spread her love of using data in the classroom to her role as Staff Developer at New Heights Academy where she created the school’s first Interim Assessment Program. Following four years at New Heights, Krista expanded her impact as a leader taking the helm as the Managing Director of Program for Citizen Schools New Jersey, a national non-profit that provides Expanded Learning Time programs. Most recently, Krista has assumed the role of Regional Managing Director where in addition to her responsibilities leading the Program team, she also manages the regional office staff and is accountable for the ultimate success of the region. Krista is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also holds an MA in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University. She is a passionate educator who believes in providing opportunity, access, and empowerment to students, teachers, and administrators alike.