Dr. Crystal Covington

School Administrator, Link Community Charter School

Newark, NJ 07083

2Awards received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Trident University International Degree Montclair State University Cert Doctorate in Education (Educational Leadership) Cert New Jersey Public Notary Cert K-5 Elementary Education Member Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Member Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society

Her Story

About Dr. Crystal

Dr. Crystal A. Covington is a dedicated and transformational educational leader with more than 22 years of experience serving students, families, and school communities across New Jersey, New York, and Georgia. Currently serving as a School Administrator at Link Community Charter School, she is recognized for her culturally responsive leadership, commitment to equity, and passion for student success in urban education. Her expertise spans instructional leadership, school operations, gifted and talented programming, special services, and the implementation of high-quality educational systems across Pre-K through 8th grade settings.

Throughout her career, Dr. Covington has built a reputation for leading with purpose, collaboration, and impact. After beginning her journey as a classroom teacher in inner-city schools, she transitioned into leadership roles including vice principal, district administrator, instructional coach, adjunct faculty instructor, and educational consultant. In addition to her work in schools, she is the CEO and owner of Sky A’zure Premier Operations, LLC and founder of Covington Educational Solutions, where she supports educational growth and leadership development initiatives. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that education has the power to transform lives and communities, and that strong partnerships among educators, families, and stakeholders are essential to student achievement.

Dr. Covington earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Trident University International and holds additional certifications in educational leadership and gifted education from Montclair State University. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society, she remains deeply committed to service, mentorship, and educational advocacy. Driven by her belief that “it takes a village to raise a child,” Dr. Covington continues to champion transformational leadership practices that empower students, educators, and communities to thrive.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Dr. Crystal

01What do you attribute your success to?

My dad. He passed away about eight years ago, and he was a very influential man in my life - both my parents were, but my dad particularly. I always remember a story from growing up when he taught me how to ride my bike. I remember getting off the training wheels and falling a lot of times, but his motto was, 'If you fall, you get back up and you keep going.' So, I would attribute my success, my compassion, my integrity, and who I am morally to my dad because character was something that was deeply valuable to him. He always said, 'Your character will take you anywhere. It will open any door.' And that has stayed with me throughout my life.

02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I would definitely say to her that she has selected the correct field in that she herself alone has the ability to change the world by the presence and the skills and the impact that she will bring to the classroom and beyond.

03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

One of the biggest challenges currently is the ongoing reorganization and reshaping of the educational system. This evolution has been taking place for decades, and researchers in the field continue to provide valuable insight into how education is shaped. I believe one of the greatest challenges is truly understanding the nuances within education and how those complexities impact students, educators, and communities. At the same time, the opportunities within education are unlimited. There is an incredible ability to create meaningful change and to connect with stakeholders from all around the world who bring different perspectives, interests, and specialized areas of focus within education.

04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

I am guided by core values: honesty, peace, determination, and a deep love for mankind. Love is the foundation of everything, and it helps bridge any gaps and bring people together despite differences or challenges.

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