Monya Thomas Criddle, Ph.D.

Ralph J. Bunche Elementary School
Jefferson Parish Schools
Metairie, Louisiana
monya.thomas-criddle@jpschools.org

For Ralph J. Bunche Elementary’s Monya Thomas Criddle, Ph.D., instructional leadership means “leading with vision, data, heart, and humanity.” Criddle has practiced this philosophy throughout her eight-year tenure at Bunche by advancing a culture of purpose and positivity that empowers teachers and students alike. Balancing encouragement with rigor, Criddle coaches teachers to embrace data-informed decision-making and assume shared ownership of school improvement. Criddle stimulates active learning by holding regular accountability meetings with teachers and families to track progress on professional and academic learning goals. With 20 years’ experience as a teacher and curriculum leader, Criddle makes it her job to elevate instruction by “building” effective teachers. She does this not only through coaching but also by giving teachers tools that work, including by developing the “Bunche Playbook,” which outlines eight foundational instructional “power plays.” With her support, Bunche teachers are more effective and achievement has improved for four consecutive years. The school has moved from C to B status while earning local and regional praise, including distinction as a Demonstration School by the National Alliance of Black School Educators. Criddle will soon lead Bunche’s expansion to include seventh and eighth grades. Named a Woman of Excellence by A Celebration of Women, Criddle holds a Ph.D. from Mississippi State University, an M.Ed. from the University of New Orleans, and a B.A. from Dillard University.