Honor Society® member
Kristin Toler
Teacher at West Craven High School
- Master's in educational leadership
- Class of 2026
- New Bern, NC
Member since October 2025
About
I am a dedicated education professional committed to continuous growth, strategic leadership, and student-centered decision-making. With experience in education and a strong foundation in graduate-level studies focused on resource management and leadership, I strive to align vision, data, and action to create meaningful school improvement. I believe effective leadership requires both analytical thinking and empathy, and I work to balance accountability with compassion in every professional setting.
Throughout my academic journey, I have strengthened my skills in strategic planning, data-informed decision-making, budgeting analysis, and stakeholder engagement. I am passionate about building collaborative environments where teachers feel supported, students feel valued, and families feel connected to the school community. I value transparency, reflection, and ethical leadership as core components of my professional identity.
My long-term goal is to serve in advanced educational leadership roles where I can influence systems-level change and promote equitable opportunities for all learners. I am driven, organized, and committed to excellence, and I approach challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Above all, I am motivated by the desire to make a lasting, positive impact on students, schools, and communities.
Education
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Johnson and Wales University
Bachelor's of Science in Baking & Pastry Arts, and Foodservice Management
2009 – 2013
Honors and awards
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Professional Excellence Recognition
Acknowledged for dedication, collaboration, and commitment to student success within my educational setting.
Goals and interests
- Career goal
My intended job path is to continue growing as an educational leader with the goal of serving in advanced leadership roles at the school and district levels. I plan to build upon my current experience in education by pursuing positions such as assistant principal, principal, and eventually district-level leadership. My long-term objective is to influence systems of instruction, resource allocation, and organizational strategy in ways that improve student achievement and promote equitable opportunities for all learners.
I am particularly interested in strategic leadership, school improvement planning, and data-informed decision-making. Through my graduate studies in educational leadership and resource management, I am developing the knowledge and skills necessary to align mission-driven goals with practical implementation. I aim to lead schools that foster strong instructional practices, positive culture, and transparent communication with stakeholders.
In the future, I hope to serve as a leader who not only manages operations effectively but also mentors teachers, builds collaborative teams, and strengthens community partnerships. My intended career path reflects a commitment to continuous growth, ethical leadership, and sustained impact within the field of education.
- Graduate school interests
My graduate school interests center on educational leadership, strategic planning, and resource management within K–12 systems. I am particularly interested in how leaders use data-informed decision-making to improve student achievement, strengthen school culture, and ensure equitable access to resources. I want to deepen my understanding of how financial, human, and technological resources can be aligned with a school’s mission and long-term goals.
I am also interested in studying change management and organizational improvement. Schools are constantly evolving, and I want to develop the skills necessary to lead sustainable change rather than short-term initiatives. Learning more about budgeting practices, stakeholder engagement, policy implementation, and instructional leadership will help me make informed decisions that positively impact both staff and students.
Additionally, I am interested in research-based practices that support student well-being, including social-emotional learning, school climate, and community partnerships. Graduate study provides an opportunity to connect theory with practice, analyze real-world challenges, and refine my leadership philosophy.
Ultimately, my graduate school interests reflect my commitment to becoming a thoughtful, strategic, and ethical leader who contributes meaningfully to educational improvement and student success.
- Outside the classroom
Outside of my professional and academic responsibilities, I enjoy activities that help me recharge, stay balanced, and continue growing personally. I value spending quality time with family and friends, as those relationships are important to me and help keep my priorities grounded. I also enjoy reading, particularly books related to leadership, personal development, and education, as they allow me to continue learning beyond the classroom.
In my free time, I appreciate activities that promote wellness and relaxation, such as walking, exercising, or spending time outdoors with. my children. These moments help me reflect and maintain the energy needed to lead effectively. I also enjoy organizing, planning, and setting personal goals, which aligns with my naturally structured and strategic mindset.
Overall, my hobbies reflect my commitment to balance—investing in both personal well-being and lifelong learning.
Experience
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Teacher
West Craven High School
Nov 2021 – Feb 2026
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owner
A Little Taste of Heaven Grill & Bakery
May 2014 – Feb 2019
Volunteering
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Volunteer
New Haven Church
Jan 2000 – Feb 2026
Languages
- English (US) Fluent
Additional information
Organizations
