Principal's Message

A woman with wavy brown hair and a floral shirt smiles warmly at the camera, with colorful balloons in the background.

Principal

Mrs. Crowther
(512) 268-8501 ext. 47001
Email Mrs. Crowther

Dear Negley Families,

Welcome to another exciting year at Negley Elementary—home of the Navigators! I’m Mrs. Melody Crowther, and I’m honored to serve as the proud Principal and “Captain” of our incredible school. It’s a privilege to lead a campus filled with passionate educators, curious students, and supportive families. Together, we form a powerful partnership grounded in trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to helping every child succeed.

This marks my eleventh year as Principal at Negley and my 38th year in education—though it feels like just yesterday that I stepped into my very first classroom as a 1st grade teacher in Hobbs, New Mexico after graduating from Texas Tech University. Over the years, I’ve taught 1st through 7th grades at eight different schools, and each experience has shaped my heart as an educator and leader.

My journey in administration began after earning my degree in Educational Administration from the University of Texas Permian Basin. I served as the Assistant Principal at Kiker Elementary in Austin ISD for six years before joining the Negley family—and I’ve loved every moment. Being a principal means no two days are the same, and my greatest joy comes from building relationships with students and watching them grow into confident learners and compassionate humans.

Outside of school, I’ve been married to my wonderful husband David for 42 years. We have two amazing daughters: Aimee, a real estate agent in Dripping Springs, and Emilee, an attorney based in Austin. I’m also Gigi to my sweet grandson, Maverick, and granddaughter, Indigo. I’m an avid reader and love to travel whenever I can!

At Negley, our mission is to provide a high-quality, well-rounded education where every child feels seen, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. With your partnership, we know our Navigators will continue to set sail toward greatness.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out—whether it’s to ask a question, share an idea, or celebrate a success. We are stronger together, and I truly believe that when schools and families work hand-in-hand, incredible things happen for our children.

Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!

With gratitude and Navigator pride,
Mrs. Melody Crowther
Principal | Negley Elementary