Crystal Engen has been hired as the new principal at Etna Elementary School as David Saltzman moves to Star Valley Middle School as Assistant Principal. COURTESY PHOTO

Crystal Engen has been approved by Lincoln County School District #2 as the new principal at Etna Elementary School. David Saltzman, who has been the principal at the school for the last several years, is taking the position of assistant principal at Star Valley Middle School.

Engen has worked in LCSD #2 with students of various ages for nearly 20 years. She began her experience in the district at Osmond Elementary School teaching fifth and sixth grade for 11 years, then served the district in creating curriculum for gifted and talented students for seven years. Her most recent assignment has been instructional coaching at EES.

Thrilled to be taking the position, Engen expressed her joy in returning to direct work with students. “I love the kids and I would say fourth through sixth grade level is ultimately my favorite.”

Engen’s training includes a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from UW and a certification in Gifted Education from the University of Iowa. She recently returned to study with UW, completing a program in Educational Leadership with Certification in Principalship.

“I’m always looking for the next thing,” said Engen. “I just love to learn new things. I love to try new things. That’s really what it comes down to, and that seemed the next logical progression in my career. I like to work with people and kids.”

Outside of work, Engen and her family thoroughly enjoy the outdoors. “We hunt, camp, snowmobile, hike, snowshoe and ride horses. We love it here! The valley is a perfect fit for us.” She is also involved with the 4-H program, lending support as needed. “It’s a great program.”

Engen and her husband, Garrett, who works in Jackson and Wilson in construction and mechanics, have two children that join them on all their adventures. “Anything we do outside, the kids have come since they were tiny. They just come along and do all the things with us.”

She is pleased with the opportunity to “work with a group of high-quality educators who truly care about kids.”

Engen’s educational philosophy begins with curiosity and student engagement. “That is my Crystal Engen Philosophy – student engagement, loving to learn and knowing how to learn. Sometimes we need to teach them how to learn so they can do it successfully as they grow. When there is no one coaching them in the future, they need to know how to learn.”