Episode 25: Dr. Margie Crooks and Fred Yeakey of Providence Cristo Rey High School

The Cristo Rey Network delivers a powerful and innovative approach to inner-city education that equips students from economically-disadvantaged families with the knowledge, character, and skills to transform their lives.

At Providence Cristo Rey High School, through a challenging, college and career preparatory curriculum offered in a faith-based, multicultural environment and the integration of work experience in a professional setting, motivated students strive to reach their highest potential and become faith-filled, socially responsible women and men who will take the lead in creating a more just society and a more hopeful future for themselves and others.

The Cristo Rey Network® is the only network of high schools in the country that integrate four years of rigorous college preparatory academics with four years of professional work experience through the Corporate Work Study Program.

Comprised of 35 Catholic, college preparatory schools that today serve more than 10,700 students across 21 states and DC and collectively claim 11,500 graduates, the Cristo Rey Network delivers a powerful and innovative approach to inner-city education that equips students from economically-disadvantaged families with the knowledge, character, and skills to transform their lives.

Providence Cristo Rey High School is the only Cristo Rey Network high school in Indiana. Leading the mission and vision of the school are Dr. Margie Crooks, President, and Fred Yeakey, Vice Principal of Culture & Mission. Together with their dedicated staff, they work to build engaged and socially responsible individuals who will become our next generation of leaders.

Dr. Crooks has more than two decades of experience in leading mission-focused organizations. During her time with the Archdiocese of Detroit, Dr. Crooks oversaw several areas of the Archdiocesan restructuring, which included 125 schools and 270 parishes. She also guided these schools and parishes through the development, alignment, and implementation of strategic goals for quality, Catholic education. 

Fred Yeakey is the Vice Principal of Culture & Mission. In this role, he leads positive behavior initiatives, parent engagement, and school mission advancement. He has more than eight years of experience in adult and secondary education, including roles with Goodwill Education Initiatives, Inc. and Indianapolis Metropolitan High School. 

Listen in as Dr. Margie Crooks and Fred Yeakey discuss the mission statement of Providence Cristo Rey High School and share how the school is building tomorrow’s leaders.