Crystal J. Redgrave, Nakona

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Crystal is an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Nations.  She is the descendent of Hu Bawega (Tom Ryan Sr.) and Wa Apa Wiya (Susie Baker), two of the first Nakona students at Carlisle Indian School.  Crystal was raised by her grandmother Joy Ryan Payne along with her mother, Pahu Wiya (Cleo Payne).  Crystal comes from a wonderful family with many relatives. Crystal is the wife of Bryce Redgrave and mother of seven children.

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In 2014, Crystal Received a Ph.D. in Education with a specialization in Curriculum and Instruction.  Crystal has a Master's Degree in Education, a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Elementary Education, and a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in English.  

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Over the years, Crystal has served as a teacher and administrator in Native American communities throughout Indian Country.  Throughout her career as an educator she has served the Dine', Tohono O'odham, Anishinabe, Tsetsehesestehase and Sotaahe, and Nakona.  She is a licensed elementary teacher with a reading endorsement, principal, and superintendent.  

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In 2012, Crystal developed a model for Indian Education.  She has presented the model throughout the U.S.  She believes Native American communities must return to their language and culture.  She works with all stakeholders to indigenize western systems, drawing from our culture and language.