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Administration

Sonya Cox

Dear Erma Siegel Elementary Families,

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I welcome you to Erma Siegel Elementary. I am honored to serve as your principal and to join such a strong and supportive school community.

Education has been my passion since I began teaching in 1997. I previously served at Erma Siegel Elementary as an Instructional Coach, and I am thrilled to return to a place that holds a special place in my heart. For the past seven years, I have served in administration, continuing to grow as a leader focused on student success and a positive school culture.

Our mission at ESE is to Engage, Serve, and Empower:

  • Engage every student in meaningful learning
  • Serve our families with care and partnership

  • Empower each child to reach their full potential

Erma Siegel Elementary has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and I look forward to continuing those traditions while also building strong relationships with our students, families, and community. I believe that open communication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to our children will allow us to create the best possible learning environment for every student.

I am so excited for the year ahead and can’t wait to meet you!

Sonya Cox
Erma Siegel Elementary Principal
Contact: sonya.cox@cityschools.net

Sonya Cox

Crystal Landis

Dear Siegel Families,

I am honored to be returning to Siegel as your Assistant Principal. I am excited to support our families and students as we continue fostering a culture that empowers children through strong academic and social supports. I am also a wife and a mother to two beautiful girls, who currently attend Siegel. As a family, we love spending time camping and caring for our many animals.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Middle Tennessee State University in 2012 and began my career as a third‑grade teacher at Trousdale Elementary School in Hartsville, Tennessee. During my time at Trousdale, I partnered with TNTP, SCORES, and Instructional Partners, which helped me develop a deep understanding of high expectations and productive struggle in the classroom.

In 2019, I graduated from Cumberland University with my Master’s Degree in Instructional Leadership. That same year, I joined Erma Siegel Elementary, where I taught third grade for five years. In 2024, I transitioned into the role of Instructional Coach at Bradley Academy. In that position, I worked closely with teachers to strengthen instructional practices across the building, ensuring equity and high‑quality learning experiences for all students.

I am thrilled to return to Siegel and use my instructional strengths to ENGAGE, SERVE, AND EMPOWER our students, staff, and families. I firmly believe that our greatest success comes from strong partnerships with all stakeholders, and I look forward to working together to build a community rooted in this shared vision

Crystal Landis
Erma Siegel Elementary Assistant Principal
Contact: crystal.landis@cityschools.net

Crystal Landis

 

Melinda Crook

Dear Erma Siegel Families,

It is my honor and privilege to serve as Assistant Principal of Erma Siegel Elementary.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from MTSU in 2000. I began my teaching career in 2001 in my hometown of Auburntown, TN, at Auburn School, the school I attended as a child. I taught 5th grade there for 9 years, and during that time, I received my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from MTSU and my Educational Specialist Degree in Administration and Supervision from TN Tech. In 2010, I was named Principal of Auburn School and held that position until May 2022 when the school was closed due to consolidation. I decided to begin a new journey with Murfreesboro City Schools at John Pittard Elementary teaching 5th grade Math in July 2022. Now, I am so excited to be here at ESE.

I feel strongly that students learn best when they feel safe, cared for, and respected. One of my favorite quotes by Rita Pierson reads, “Every kid deserves a champion-an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists they become the best they can possibly be.” I make that my goal each day-to let kids know I believe in them, to make connections with them, and let them know I expect their best.

I have one daughter, Lily, who keeps me busy with all of her sports activities. We enjoy attending church and spending time with our family and friends.

I look forward to meeting all of our families here and building upon the great traditions already in place at ESE. It’s going to be a great year!

Melinda Crook
Erma Siegel Assistant Principal
Contact: melinda.crook@cityschools.net

Melinda Crook