Mrs. Crystal Rucas
Elementary Principal, Three Way ISD
crucas@twisd.us

As the Elementary Principal at Three Way ISD, I firmly believe in the transformative power of the “just 1” philosophy, recognizing that every individual within our educational community has the potential to make a lasting difference. Inspired by the words of George Couros, I wholeheartedly embrace the idea that “just one teacher, just one student, just one administrator can change the lives of many” and that “we can't be successful if we don't have relationships with the people that we serve”. This philosophy serves as the guiding principle behind my leadership approach, as I strive to empower and support each member of our Three Way ISD community.

My journey in education began 11 years ago at Three Way ISD, where I served as a dedicated technology teacher for grades 3-12th. Throughout my time here, I have been committed to excellence and driven by a desire to make a positive impact. Taking on numerous leadership positions within the school, I engaged with students through teaching yearbook, coaching girls’ sports, and cheerleading.

In my new role as the Elementary Principal, I am excited to take Three Way ISD to new heights. My vision is to foster a strong sense of community, improve our school culture, and promote excellence throughout. By empowering our teachers and students to unlock their full potential, I believe that Three Way ISD can truly become a place where everyone thrives.

With keeping Phillipians 2:3-4 in mind, I strive to value others above ourselves and consider their interests. These values are the foundation of my leadership, and I consistently prioritize the well-being and growth of our students, teachers, and staff.

Educational research has shown that preparing students for the real world goes beyond academic knowledge. It involves developing their critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. As an elementary principal, I am committed to fostering these skills by providing students with opportunities to explore, collaborate, and apply their learning to real-world situations.

Motivating students is crucial for their academic success, and I believe in creating a positive school culture that celebrates their achievements and encourages them to pursue their passions. By providing a safe and supportive learning environment, students can take risks, make mistakes, and learn from their experiences. Additionally, I prioritize the social-emotional well-being of our students, as research shows it is closely tied to their academic success. Creating a school culture that values and supports the whole child is key to nurturing their growth and development.

As a lifelong learner and an innovative thinker, I am dedicated to supporting teachers and being their number one cheerleader. I understand that teacher support and collaboration are crucial for improving student outcomes. By providing resources, training, and support to our teachers, we can create a culture of excellence that benefits both students and educators.

Community involvement is also paramount for our school’s success. By working closely with families, staff, and community members, we can create a shared vision that ensures everyone feels valued and supported. Fostering open communication, promoting transparency and accountability, and building strong partnerships are essential elements of my commitment to serving our Three Way community.

I am immensely proud to be a BRAVE, and my love for Three Way fuels my dedication to shaping a brighter future for our students. Together, we will empower them to achieve their dreams and create an environment where everyone thrives.

Mrs. Rucas