Katawna Crittenden serves as the Family Engagement Coordinator for GEAR UP the METRO. In this role, Katawna develops and supports partnerships among schools, families, and community organizations to help students prepare for success in college and career pathways. This is done by coordinating and implementing family engagement activities, workshops, and events that increase families’ understanding of postsecondary education options, academic expectations, and financial aid resources. In addition, providing school family engagement leaders with tools, resources, and strategies to strengthen family-school partnerships and empower parent leadership.

She previously worked with the GEAR UP O+K=C team as a College Coach in Oklahoma City Public Schools. In this role, she followed the Check & Connect Student Engagement Intervention Model in mentoring students who needed additional support to help them achieve consistent school attendance and academic success. Prior to her time with GEAR UP, she served as the Family Engagement Specialist at Oklahoma City Public Schools. During her career, she has worked with youth and families in various settings to support and connect with them with resources to strengthen social emotional learning, educational, and vocational advancement.

Katawna holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, specializing in juveniles, from Prairie View A&M University, as well as a Master of Education degree, specializing in Urban Education, from Langston University.