In 2004, Dr. Crystal Swinton Cooper, previously known as Crystal Swinton, officially began her career journey into business and education consulting after operating a licensed childcare facility in Central Virginia for several years. Since then, she has served in a variety of roles under contracts including:
Becoming a Certified Professional Development Specialist with the Council of Professional Recognition for the National CDA Credential 2013
For 3 years was a STE(A)M Mentoring Coach, with the PNC Grow up Great Initiative in 2013.
Was a CLASS Observer with Early Learning Coalitions of Florida, observing and documenting teacher interactions for improvements 2015-2017
Became a Certified Technical Assistant Coach with the University of Florida’s Lastinger Center in 2015.
Became a Certified Trainer and Master’s Teaching Specialist with Nova Southeastern University in 2017.
She never considered a long-term position with any agency, but after working on a contract position with Family Central Inc., she accepted a full-time position as the Director of Business Development and Training for Family Central Inc., (FCI) where she supported school leaders and educational instructors in delivering credentials and professional growth opportunities to adult learners from 2018-2024. The mission at FCI was changing lives for a lifetime, which aligned perfectly with her personal goals in helping others.
She oversaw and led the Broward County Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI), a transformative 20-week program, for families interested in making changes in their community. During that time, she partnered with local city officials to empower parents and caregivers to become effective advocates for children and agents of positive change within their communities.
She oversaw the post-secondary licensed school programs for the State of Florida’s Department of Education and accreditation through the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) for CEU processing.
She has contributed to the field of early learning as an FCCPC/CDA Instructor, CLASS Observer for infant, toddler and preschool classrooms, a Interrater Reliable Observer for both Teaching Strategies and the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership and continues to complete classroom observations, guidance and support for improvements in early learning environments.
Her academic achievements include holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Multidisciplinary Studies (Business Administration and Education), a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning from Liberty University and an Ed.D. (Doctorate of Education, Early Childhood Leadership) with Distinction from National University. Her dissertation topic discussed: The Role of In-Service Training on Teachers’ Perceptions for Being Intentional with Integrating STEAM Concepts into Their Classroom Environments.
Over the past 25 years, she has built a career rooted in empowering individuals and transforming learning environments.
In 2024, her husband, Clifford Cooper, a seasoned investor and project manager, co-founded Jump Start Builders, a pre-construction STE(A)M initiative that introduces children to the world of construction. Their goal is to strengthen children’s confidence to think critically, problem solve and learn how things are made in our world.
In 2014, Dr. Crystal Swinton Cooper’s first group of students for the FCCPC/CDA class surprised her with a graduation celebration for completing her Master’s Degree.
They went above and beyond by presenting this picture with their names engraved on a customized frame.
Class of 2023, Broward Parent Leadership Institute, Parent Leaders Graduation. Pictured with the local Director of Business Development and Training, Facilitators, and City Commissioners.
