29 May 2007
Williams Began Serving the District as a Teacher and Football Coach 31 Years Ago
DALLAS–Leslie Williams, a veteran administrator with more than 31 years of service in education, was named the 2007 – 2008 Dallas Independent School District Principal of the Year during a luncheon held Tuesday, May 29.
Superintendent of Schools Michael Hinojosa congratulated Williams, and Jonathan Kirby of AXA Advisors, the event's sponsor, presented Williams a check for $3,000.
Williams has been the principal at Skyline High School and Career Development Center for the past three years. He has served the district since 1976, starting his career as a teacher at South Oak Cliff High School, his high school alma mater.
Williams earned a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Education in 1976 from Prairie View College, and later received a Master of Education in Administrative Supervision from the same school. In 1989, he obtained a Mid-Management Certification from Texas Woman's University, followed by an Administrative Certification from Prairie View A&M University in 1990.
"My professional goal has been to create a community of learners that will be academically prepared with the knowledge and skills to become productive and responsible citizens," said Williams. "I am lucky to work in the only profession that I love."
Colleagues credit William's skillful implementation of curriculum changes and innovative programs and practices for the school's academic status. One successful change involved the creation of single-gender classes in subjects such as English, Geography, History, Algebra, Geometry and Biology. Subjective data has shown that both teachers and students made positive gains through these classes because there are fewer distractions and students are more focused.
Williams has gained his staff's respect and admiration through his good leadership. "He is a true visionary, and like Noah, he is determined in building his ark despite the doubts of those who don't share the vision," said a staff member at Skyline High School and Career Development Center.
Another staff member describes him as a principal who works with students. "He sees himself as their 'daytime daddy,' who provides for their welfare while they're under the school's care."
Williams believes his relationship with students, parents, staff and the community has built credibility and trust, enabling him to become a successful principal of an ever-improving school. "I am proud of my school, and of what I am able to do each day to help it reach its maximum potential."
A selection committee comprised of former principals of the year, teachers, central administration representatives and community members reviewed nomination packages. Nominees were considered in the areas of leadership skills, management effectiveness, community relations and parent involvement skills; the five finalists were interviewed by the final selection committee.
Finalists for this year's award were Larry Allen, Alex Sanger Elementary School; Lisa DeVeaux, Edna Rowe Elementary School; Yolanda Gonzalez, William Lipscomb Elementary School; and Anita Hardwick, Harry C. Withers Elementary School.
Each of the five finalists received an engraved award and $250 cash.