Crystal Wise

Crystal Wise is an Assistant Professor in Elementary Literacy Education at the University of Minnesota's College of Education and Human Development. Her background as a kindergarten and second-grade teacher informs her research and post-secondary teaching, focusing on early literacy, culturally responsive pedagogies, and historical and contemporary literacy practices of African Americans.

• Education: BS in Elementary Education (Indiana University Bloomington), MS in Educational Leadership (Indiana University Northwest), EdM in Language and Literacy (Harvard University), PhD in Educational Studies with a Graduate Certificate in African American Studies (University of Michigan).

Her research explores how young children use culturally and linguistically responsive methods to develop vocabulary assessments and instructional approaches. Her publications highlight trends in literacy instruction, project-based learning, and social justice themes in education.

• Scientific Awards: STAR Mentoring Program Fellow (2022-2024), Stanley E. and Ruth B. Dimond Best Dissertation Award (2019).

She has contributed to media outreach, including a featured article on informational texts in home education with PBS Kids (2019). Her work bridges classroom practice with academic research.