At Anacortes and Cap Sante High Schools, Crystal Blanton has quickly become a steady and trusted presence. As the Site Coordinator for Communities In Schools of Whatcom-Skagit, she brings a calm, thoughtful energy to her work—one that helps students feel seen, supported, and empowered to move forward.
A Reflective Leader with a Clear Sense of Purpose
Crystal is deeply reflective and always open to growth. She actively seeks feedback, asks thoughtful questions, and doesn’t shy away from examining her own beliefs or approaches. This openness makes her both an effective advocate for students and a valued colleague among her team. Her sense of humor and honesty create an environment where others feel at ease, even in challenging moments.
In her time with CISWS, Crystal has faced tough situations with both strength and empathy, consistently showing up for her students and advocating for their needs without hesitation.
Building Community Through Quiet Presence and Creative Supports
Crystal’s work this year has centered on building relationships and creating intentional spaces for students to feel safe and included. She’s launched supportive, low-pressure opportunities like Quiet Lunch, offering students a calm alternative during their day. She also introduced the Queer Book Club, a space for LGBTQ+ and allied students to connect through shared reading and conversation.
These efforts may seem small from the outside, but they are powerful ways of cultivating belonging and strengthening the school’s social climate.
A hallmark of Crystal’s work is her ability to meet students where they are. From offering basic needs like snacks and school supplies to building strong one-on-one relationships, she’s built trust across both campuses. Many students check in with her regularly, some just for a quick hello, others for deeper conversations or academic support.
In one instance, several students who transferred to a different school requested to continue meeting with her. The fact that they chose to maintain those connections speaks volumes about the impact she’s had.
Crystal also plays a meaningful role in the broader school community. This past fall, she helped support Homecoming events and even served as a judge for the student Lip Sync Battle—a fun way to connect with students while contributing to a strong sense of school spirit.
At the same time, she continues to support students with more personal needs—like coordinating clothing assistance for a student without a winter coat, or helping another work through anxiety and school attendance challenges. She approaches each situation with care, patience, and respect for students’ dignity.
A Consistent and Grounded Presence
Crystal’s approach to her work is steady, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine care. Her background in people-focused roles shows in the way she engages with students—always listening, encouraging, and creating space for growth.
Congratulations, Crystal
We’re proud to recognize Crystal Blanton as February’s Site Coordinator of the Month. Her commitment to building relationships, creating safe spaces, and advocating for students continues to make a meaningful difference at Anacortes and Cap Sante High Schools.