A former journalist, Crawford previously served as Washington editor of Education Week. As an independent writer since 1987, he has specialized in language and education policy. His latest book is Educating English Learners: Language Diversity in the Classroom (2004), the 5th edition of a widely used text in teacher-training courses.

As a long-time advocate for language-minority students, Crawford is no stranger to NABE members, having dedicated much of his career to protecting the rights of children to a quality education. He is strongly committed to building NABE as the premier organization representing the needs of English learner students and educators, while ensuring that NABE's growth results in a greater influence and impact on all aspects of education for these children. “NABE welcomes Jim as its new executive director, and looks forward to what will surely be great success in our efforts under his leadership,” said NABE President Josefina Tinajero.

Working closely with the NABE board of directors, Crawford will give special priority to strengthening NABE’s financial and membership base, enhancing public understanding of bilingual education, and addressing issues that concern educators of English language learners, including high-stakes testing, arbitrary accountability mechanisms, and English-only policies.

The National Association for Bilingual Education is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting educational excellence and equity for English language learners and to representing the professional educators who serve them. NABE members are teachers, administrators, college instructors, researchers, publishers, parents, students, and other advocates for language-minority children.