Meet our Admin Team

I am extremely proud to be part of a learning community that has a strong reputation for academic excellence, a nurturing environment, and active family engagement, and I am committed to continuing this legacy of success. I believe deeply in fostering a culture where every student is known, valued, and inspired to achieve their fullest potential.

With 17 years in education, my journey began as a middle school Health and Physical Education teacher before progressing into roles as a high school Dean of Students and a college preparation program Director. In these roles, I cultivated a passion for leadership, student development, and academic excellence. As an Assistant Principal, I led initiatives that increased access and opportunities for advanced academic learning, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, had the chance to engage in strength-based learning. This included expanding our school’s advanced academic programs and increasing the number of students identified for full-time advanced academic learning. These efforts reflect my deep commitment to equity and maximizing opportunities for all students.

One of my core commitments is to help students develop their Profile of a Graduate skills, equipping them with the knowledge, habits of mind, and experiences necessary to create thriving futures for themselves and their communities. My goal is to ensure that all Westridge students leave our school with the skills and attributes they will need to succeed not only in middle school but throughout life.

On a personal note, my family and I have been proud residents of Prince William County since 2015. I have deep local roots, having grown up in Herndon and attending Fairfax County Public Schools. I earned my undergraduate degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C., where I studied Physical Education, and later earned a Master's Degree in Education Leadership from George Mason University. My wife, Remela, and I have three wonderful children: Samira (15), Sabrina (7), and Rayyan (5), all of whom attend Prince William County Public Schools. As a family, we cherish spending time together across the DMV, visiting local parks, the beach, and exploring new places.

I want to assure you that my leadership approach is rooted in transparency, collaboration, and a deep commitment to excellence. I am truly honored to be part of the Westridge family and look forward to working with all of you to continue the tradition of excellence at this amazing school. Together, we will ensure that every student has the opportunities and support they need to succeed.

My name is Dr. Candyse Crow, and I am honored to serve as the Assistant Principal at Westridge Elementary School. Most recently, I served as the Administrative Intern at Piney Branch Elementary School and had the privilege of serving as the Summer School Principal during the 2026 session.

I earned my Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Liberty University and received both my Master of Education in School Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Loyola Marymount University. In addition, I hold endorsements in Gifted Education through Regent University and Special Education through Loyola Marymount University.

Over the past 13 years, I have served in a variety of educational roles, including third- through fifth-grade teacher, STEM specialist, STEM trainer, teacher mentor, gifted education specialist, and special educator for students in grades K–2. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about supporting students with diverse learning needs, fostering teacher growth, and collaborating with families and staff to ensure all students have opportunities to thrive. These experiences have provided me with a strong foundation in student achievement, instructional leadership, and building positive school communities.

I am excited to partner with students, staff, and families to create meaningful, engaging, and supportive learning experiences for all learners.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wonderful husband and our cats, who keep life entertaining and full of joy. Family and relationships are incredibly important to me, and I believe strong connections are at the heart of every successful community. I strive to foster those same connections within the school setting.

I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Westridge Elementary School community and look forward to getting to know and serving our students and families.