Crystal Turner of Midtown on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Crystal Turner . Check out our conversation below.

Hi Crystal , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day consist of reading my devotional, prayer , the gym and coffee.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Crystal Turner is a dedicated educator, leader, and advocate for children and families. A proud product of the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools®, Crystal began her journey as a scholar in the program and has since served in multiple key roles, including Junior Intern, Intern, Site Coordinator, Project Director, and Ella Baker Trainer, as well as contributing to curriculum development.

She now serves as the Executive Director of Sankofa Freedom School, where she continues to inspire and equip the next generation through culturally responsive education and servant leadership.

Crystal is also the owner of Kaye’s Learning Corner, a dynamic early learning center that nurtures young minds and supports families with high-quality care and education.

Through her work, Crystal has trained and mentored countless educators, empowered youth to become lifelong learners, and advanced the mission of freedom schools to cultivate a love of reading and social action. Her career reflects a deep commitment to equity, community, and the power of education to transform lives.

Key Accomplishments & Roles
• Scholar turned Executive Director of Sankofa Freedom School
• Service in every major role within the CDF Freedom Schools® program: Junior Intern, Intern, Site Coordinator, Project Director, Ella Baker Trainer
• Curriculum contributor for CDF Freedom Schools®
• Founder and Owner of Kaye’s Learning Corner, providing high-quality early childhood education
• Mentor and trainer for educators and youth leaders in culturally responsive education

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
It is my belief comparison breaks the bonds comparison is the their of joy and usually allows space for competition, jealousy and envy.

What restores these bonds is each individual settling into their purpose and trusting their God given process

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me patience, discipline & long suffering

I’ve learned in every season that God allows your posture and attitude is important to the lesson you need to learn

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Family , Faith & Loyalty

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think people will misunderstand my resilience in my position most would have quit time after time.

I allow the hard things to realign me

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.KayesLearningCorner.org
• Instagram: Kaye’s Learning Corner
• Facebook: Kaye’s Learning Corner

Image Credits
Jayd Tandy photography