Her Story
About Krista
Krista Wyman has dedicated her career to education since 1998, building a professional path defined by hands-on experience, mentorship, and a deep commitment to service. Raised in a family that valued giving back to others, she earned her bachelor's degree from Western University (formerly the University of Western Ontario) in Canada before relocating to the United States, where she completed her teaching certification at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. She went on to spend roughly two decades in the classroom, first as a science facilitator and department chair, where she developed the foundation of instructional expertise that would later inform her approach to school leadership.
Transitioning from teaching into administration, Krista progressed through a series of leadership roles, including Dean of Students and Assistant Director of Academics, before stepping into her current position as Head Director for Grades 7–12 at a growing charter school in Wake Forest, North Carolina. In this role, she oversees a team of seven administrators and supports a student body of nearly 1,400, guiding the school's academic and cultural growth through its "raise values" of respect, accountability, integrity, service, and excellence. Under her leadership, the school has advanced from a C to a B rating, with continued progress toward an A as the next milestone. She is also currently furthering her own education through a master's program in Educational Leadership and Administration at Liberty University.
Beyond the classroom and administrative office, Krista is guided by a philosophy of servant leadership, believing that effective education depends on trust, open communication, and a willingness to listen to students, parents, teachers, and the broader community. Her commitment to service extends well beyond school walls through active involvement in her church and participation in community initiatives such as Angel Tree, Toys for Tots, food drives, St. Baldrick's, and blood drives. In recognition of her contributions to education and her community, Krista has been selected for inclusion in the Influential Women 2026 feature representing the Raleigh, North Carolina area.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Krista
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being hands-on and fully present in my work every day, along with a commitment to servant leadership. Building a strong culture of accountability, working collaboratively as a team, and learning from trusted mentors along the way have all played a significant role in shaping who I am as a leader.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Early in my career, a principal took the time to mentor me and helped me see situations from other perspectives, which sharpened my practice and my judgment as an educator. That experience taught me how valuable it is to have a trusted mentor who is willing to give honest, constructive feedback.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage them to lead with humility and empathy rather than trying to control situations with an iron fist. Leadership in education is not about having all the answers; it is about collaboration and listening to every stakeholder, including students, parents, and teachers. I would also tell them to seek out mentors, remain open to feedback, and never stop learning, even from their own students. Ultimately, education is about service, and every interaction is a chance to make a lasting difference.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I see is combating the disengaging effects of social media, excessive screen time, and the growing presence of AI in students' lives. Alongside this, maintaining accountability among students, families, and staff remains an ongoing priority, as does addressing the retention of strong teachers and school leaders.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Respect, accountability, integrity, service, and excellence guide everything I do, both professionally and personally. I also hold humility, empathy, and collaboration close to heart, believing that true leadership means listening, serving others, and recognizing the expertise of those around me.
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