Crystal Stonewall

Crystal Stonewall is an Associate University Legal Counsel at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Office of Legal Affairs. Her primary practice areas include student and academic affairs, and public records/open meetings law. Crystal graduated with the Highest Distinction from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2019 where she earned her B.S. in elementary education. She is licensed to teach in both Wisconsin and Illinois. Crystal also graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 2022. Crystal is honored to have been recognized for her community engagement and leadership by the State Bar of Wisconsin in 2021 as the Outstanding Public Interest Law Student of the Year.

Why are you a Board member at CICS?

As a current attorney, my professional trajectory is partially due to my relationship and affinity with Chicago International Charter Schools (CICS). As a graduate of CICS Wrightwood, I learned many valuable academic skills that I carried with me throughout my educational journeys in high school, college, and law school. I had many teachers and mentors at Wrightwood who demonstrated compassion to me while maintaining professionalism along the way. They supported and encouraged me to strive for excellence in all of my future endeavors. Additionally, I have worked with the CICS central office in various marketing and recruitment capacities by sharing my journey and illustrating the value of a CICS education to all of its constituents and prospective students and families.

I am optimistic that CICS will continue to improve the lives of its students, families, and communities by exhibiting the qualities and best practices that I have witnessed first-hand. As I too recognize that education is a key gateway for personal and professional prosperity for students and families, especially from underprivileged and marginalized communities, I am excited to be considered for membership on the CICS board and assist the board in leading the entire CICS community to becoming one of Chicago’s best school organizations.