Biography
Ms. Elizabeth Crawford serves as the Early Programs Specialist at the June Harless Center for Rural Educational Research and Development. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a specialization in Early Childhood, and a Master of Arts in School Counseling, both from Marshall University. Additionally, she has earned certification as an Elementary Math Specialist.
Elizabeth began her journey with the Harless Center in 2012 as a graduate intern, collaborating with lead teachers and fellow interns at the Marshall University Early Education STEAM Center in Huntington, WV. Her commitment to early childhood education led her to participate in two study abroad tours to Reggio Emilia, Italy, where she explored the world-renowned early childhood programs that continue to influence her work.
Since then, Elizabeth has served as a STEAM Outreach Educator, supporting early learning programs across West Virginia. She promotes developmentally appropriate practices inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, integrating them into STEAM-focused initiatives.
In her current role, Elizabeth coordinates professional learning for the Harless Center, specializing in early childhood best practices and STEAM project implementation. Her work spans both pre-service and in-service teacher development, partnering with a variety of school systems throughout the state to elevate early education.