08/14/2026
🙌 Nyack Public Schools is proud to welcome Dr. Crystal Chandler as the new Principal of Nyack High School!
Dr. Chandler brings extensive experience in education and school leadership, with a career grounded in special education and a commitment to seeing and supporting every student. She began her educational journey at Touro University, where she earned her Master’s in Childhood Education and Special Education. She started her career as a special education teacher before moving into school leadership as a high school assistant principal.
She went on to earn her Master’s in Educational Leadership, serve as a middle school principal and continue her studies to earn her Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
💬 Q&A: Get to Know Dr. Crystal Chandler
🔹 Tell us a little about your background and what brought you to this role?
I was looking for a district that delivered a little differently and looked at every child—one that sees every child. Everyone’s family has their own story. The kids here inspire me and I enjoy taking part in their lives. Kids should be recognized, supported and seen no matter what. My goal is to see every child. I’ve had to teach differently and see students differently.
🔹 What are you most excited about?
I’m most excited about building relationships with everyone—from our teachers to our students. I’m looking forward to seeing the spirit of Nyack High School come alive as the school year begins and experiencing it alongside our students. I even had a student ask me, ‘Are you really into Halloween?’ I can’t wait to show them just how much I love Halloween and that school spirit! I’m excited for all of the experiences ahead and most importantly, getting to know our students and the entire school community.
🔹 What advice do you have for making it a great school year?
“Take everything in stride and actually enjoy it.”
Take time to pause every now and then. Stop and soak it in. There’s always going to be time for academics, but don’t run through the year. The experiences are what I want kids to take the time to enjoy. The things I recall now are always those experiences—the things you cherish. Take time, slow down and soak it in.
🔹 What’s a quote that has stayed with you?
Being from Brooklyn, Dr. Chandler shared “The rose that grew from concrete”—a phrase from Tupac that appeared on her first master’s cap and has stayed with her.
🔹 Fun Fact!
I was born in Barbados and I will always choose a beach vacation when I get the chance! 🌴
Dr. Chandler hosted three amazing Meet & Greets with NPS students and families this summer, giving our community a chance to connect, ask questions and get to know their new principal.
💬 Want to connect with Dr. Chandler? Scan the QR code to take a quick three-question survey and share your thoughts as we begin this exciting new chapter together.
Please join us in giving our new principal a warm Red & Black welcome as she begins at Nyack High School! ❤️🖤
NPS Press Release 🔗 -https://drive.google.com/file/d/135eFymrQs5v9zVKV56iGXesBhTNaczDj/view?usp=drive_link