Russellville School District recently announced that Shavon (Young) Jackson, Principal of Crawford Elementary School, had been named the 2025 Arkansas Association of Elementary School Principals (AAESP) Elementary Principal of the Year.
A Guthrie native, Jackson was raised in the community and graduated from Guthrie High School before pursuing a career in education. Her journey of leadership and dedication has now led her to this prestigious recognition. In a heartfelt moment, her family traveled to Russellville to surprise her and celebrate this incredible achievement.
Jackson has served as Principal of Crawford since 2017, earning widespread admiration for her commitment to student success, innovative leadership, and fostering a positive learning environment. Under her guidance, Crawford Elementary has achieved numerous accolades, including being named a 2023-2024 Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase School, earning High Reliability School Level 1 certification, and receiving the High Effective School Accreditation. Additionally, the school was honored as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2020, and Jackson herself was awarded the Terrel H. Bell National Blue Ribbon Principal Distinction for her exceptional leadership.
“I am honored to receive this award. I am blessed to lead the most amazing students and staff. Crawford is a special place, and I have grown as a leader as a result of our school community’s commitment to helping students learn and grow at high levels,” said Jackson.
RSD Superintendent Dr. Ginni McDonald praised Jackson’s leadership, stating, “It is a privilege to work with principals like Ms. Jackson. Her leadership with students and staff makes her deserving of this recognition. She will have the opportunity to be a voice for principals across Arkansas.”
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