Her Story
About Stephanie
Stephanie Crim serves as an Academic Coach at a high school in DeBerry, Florida, where she supports educators in developing strategies that help students achieve academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth. With 22 years of experience in K-12 education, Stephanie has built a diverse background as a Spanish and social studies educator, teaching Spanish levels 1 through 3 and a wide range of social studies courses, including World History, U.S. History, Economics, and U.S. Government. Her teaching experience spans honors, regular, Advanced Placement (AP), and Exceptional Student Education (ESE) settings, allowing her to develop a deep understanding of differentiated instruction and student-centered learning.
Throughout her career, Stephanie has specialized in intervention services, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), special education, and supporting students with diverse learning needs, including students with autism. She is passionate about creating equitable educational opportunities and helping both teachers and students access the resources and support needed for success. Stephanie previously served in roles including ESE Teacher, MTSS Coach, 504 Coordinator, Administrative Dean, and Intervention Specialist, where she focused on strengthening instructional practices, improving student outcomes, and fostering inclusive learning environments.
Stephanie earned a bachelor’s degree in History and Spanish, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership with a focus on Institutional and Organizational Leadership from the University of Central Florida in 2023. Fluent in Spanish, she remains actively engaged in supporting her school and community, including involvement with Special Olympics initiatives. Stephanie is guided by a commitment to lifelong learning, equity, and meaningful relationships, and she believes in steady, incremental professional growth that allows her to continue developing her skills while staying connected to the students whose progress inspires her work.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Stephanie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for education, my commitment to continuous growth, and my desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Over my 22 years in education, I have been fortunate to serve as a Spanish and social studies teacher and now work as an academic coach supporting both teachers and students, with a special focus on intervention and special education. I believe my success comes from building strong relationships, embracing challenges, and always striving to create opportunities for others to succeed. Outside of my professional work, I continue to pursue my passions through playing the violin, speaking Spanish, traveling, and enjoying outdoor activities, which inspire creativity, connection, and lifelong learning.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to continue building, learning, and growing while staying true to my own pace and goals. I have always valued steady, incremental growth rather than rapid advancement because I believe in taking the time to develop the skills, confidence, and experience needed to succeed in higher positions. My mentors have reinforced that this approach is not only valid but valuable, reminding me that a thoughtful, long-term focus allows me to be fully prepared and make a meaningful impact as I continue to advance in my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the education field is to follow their passion and pursue work that genuinely brings them purpose. While there are many misconceptions about careers in public education, including assumptions about financial stability, my 22 years of experience have shown me that teaching can be a rewarding and fulfilling profession. It is important to enter this field with a true love for working with students, a willingness to build strong relationships, and an understanding that growth takes time. I encourage young educators to pace themselves, ask questions, embrace learning, and develop resilience, because burnout is real and the work requires a strong sense of commitment. Most importantly, do not strive for perfection; focus on continuous growth, progress, and the meaningful impact you can make in the lives of students.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field is finding ways to stay connected to the direct impact we have on students, especially as I move into a higher-level role. While leadership positions provide opportunities to support teachers, develop strategies, and influence broader educational outcomes, I truly value the moments when I can see students’ growth and progress firsthand. Continuing to create opportunities for meaningful connections with students and educators remains a priority, as those experiences are what inspire and remind me of the purpose behind the work I do.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in my work and personal life are growth, compassion, dedication, and making a positive impact on others. I believe in continuously learning and improving, both personally and professionally, while taking a steady and intentional approach to growth. In my work, I am passionate about supporting students and educators, particularly through Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and my work with students with autism and diverse learning needs. I value patience, collaboration, and the belief that every individual has the ability to grow when provided with the right support and opportunities. These values guide the way I build relationships, approach challenges, and strive to create meaningful change for the students and communities I serve.
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