Christi Crittenden
Christi Crittenden is the Founder and Executive Director of Anna’s House School in Staunton, Virginia, an elementary and a preschool dedicated to nurturing children academically, socially, and spiritually. With a lifelong passion for children, family, and faith, Christi has devoted over three decades to early childhood education, shaping programs that emphasize both academic excellence and character development. Her approach blends strong leadership with hands-on involvement, ensuring that each child experiences a supportive and enriching environment. Prior to founding Anna’s House School, Christi held leadership roles at several early childhood institutions, including enCourage Preschools, Fishersville United Methodist Church Child Development Center, and Woods Creek Montessori. In these positions, she focused on curriculum development, staff mentorship, budget management, and community engagement. Christi has a proven track record of fostering educational programs that not only meet rigorous standards but also encourage creativity, empathy, and service among young learners. Christi earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and pursued further studies in Educational Leadership and Administration at Hollins University. Beyond her professional work, she actively contributes to her community through organizations such as the Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce, Staunton Rotary, and Trinity Episcopal Church. Christi’s dedication to service, education, and leadership continues to impact children, families, and the broader Staunton community.
• The University of Alabama in Huntsville - B.S.
• NAEYC
• Rotary International
• International Adoption Support Group in Lexington and the Rockbridge Area
• GARC Chamber - Voice Of Business Committee
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to over twenty years in education, beginning in childcare, where I learned that teaching is about shaping character, cultivating curiosity, and building a foundation for lifelong growth. This philosophy guided me through my career and ultimately inspired me to found my own school.
At our school, we prioritize both academic excellence and character development, integrating the Habits of the Mind into daily learning. Leading a school has taught me the importance of balancing mission-driven vision with operational and financial discipline.
Opening during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic tested that balance, yet through diligence and community trust, we remained open for in-person learning without a single closure—a milestone that remains one of my proudest achievements. My experiences in Montessori education and hands-on, experiential learning continue to shape our model, ensuring education is alive, responsive, and deeply connected to the real world.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is simple: take the chance. Say yes to opportunities that feel a little too big. Opening a school required faith, resilience, and a willingness to learn on the fly, but it also reinforced that meaningful progress rarely comes without risk. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—everything is a learning process. As long as you grow from those experiences, you will continue to grow as an educator and as a leader.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced was opening a school in the midst of a global pandemic. There was no roadmap—only daily decisions guided by courage, responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to our students. Building a school from the ground up meant learning to balance vision with reality. I had to grow quickly both as an educator and a leader, making financial, operational, and instructional decisions that carried real weight. Choosing to remain open for in-person learning during COVID required trust—from families, staff, and the community—and the discipline to uphold rigorous safety standards every day. The challenge wasn’t just launching a school; it was sustaining a culture of excellence, character, and care in the midst of uncertainty. Every risk I took strengthened my resilience, sharpened my decision-making, and reinforced my purpose as an educator.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are service, community, and faith. Beyond the classroom, I am actively involved with the Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Staunton Rotary Club, supporting nonprofit initiatives and community development. One of my most meaningful projects has been founding an Early Act Club at a local elementary school, introducing young students to service leadership through Rotary’s youth program. I am also a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, where faith and service continue to shape and inspire my work.