Indy Standard

The Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) has named Crishell Sam, principal of James Whitcomb Riley School 43, as the 2025 IPS Principal of the Year. The announcement was made during a surprise event at the school on Friday.

IPS Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson commended Principal Sam for her transformative leadership at the school. "Crishell Sam’s impact on James Whitcomb Riley has been nothing short of transformative, both for the school community and for individual students," said Dr. Johnson. "In just one year as principal, she has successfully reset the climate and culture of the school, achieving an extraordinary 131.3 point reduction in suspensions under her leadership. Ms. Sam’s innovative and empathetic approach has fostered an environment where every student feels valued and empowered."

The award recognizes principals who exceed their daily responsibilities to create exceptional educational environments, with IPS aiming to promote excellence in school leadership through this recognition.

Prior to her current role, Principal Sam served as interim principal at Arsenal Technical High School and began her career with IPS as a sixth-grade teacher at James Whitcomb Riley School 43.

Erica Robinson, one of the district's Executive Directors of Schools, nominated Principal Sam for the award. Robinson praised her leadership since taking over before the 2023-24 school year and noted her efforts in collaborating with community partners to enhance academic and extracurricular programs.

Robinson highlighted that Principal Sam secured a literacy grant through Butler University for staff training aligned with district and state expectations for the Science of Reading. Her vision has also led to her nomination for the Fox59 Remarkable Women award.

"Upon accepting her role as principal, she quickly mobilized the leadership team to review data, identify goals, and establish relationships with students, families, and community partners in an effort to build positive partnerships with key stakeholders," Robinson stated. "It was evident that Principal Sam was driven and focused on creating the necessary conditions for all parties to feel successful as members of the James Whitcomb Riley community."

Principal Sam's use of restorative justice practices has reduced disciplinary incidents and improved morale at School 43. Her dedication to equity and personalized learning is transforming it into a nurturing environment. Under her guidance, School 43 is set to become the only elementary Visual and Performing Arts School in the district as part of IPS's Rebuilding Stronger initiative.

Before joining IPS, Crishell Sam earned a Bachelor of Education in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston-Downtown and a Master of Education from Indiana Wesleyan University.