MASA Feature www.gomasa.org 17 know that transformation is possible. I offer 100% commitment to the success of our partners. It pains me to say that many of the educators with whom I have worked are not used to having support as they try new strategies, fail, reflect, adjust, and try again. For example, when we at Partners in School Innovation began supporting Battle Creek Public Schools, an assistant superintendent regarded my assistance with skepticism. She asked whether I was “working an angle.” I told her that I was only interested in helping her and the students of her district succeed. After a few weeks of showing her that I was committed to helping her, the doubt faded, and we have worked well together for four years now. In addition to dedication to helping others improve, I offer the following specific advice to educators looking to inspire the next generation: Make every child feel welcome and valued every day. Greet your students at the door with a smile and tell them that you’re glad to see them—even the students who act out. Plan for and teach rigorous differentiated lessons based on product, process, and content. Learn as much as you can and never stop. Remember that this work is as much about your heart as it is about your head. Expect great things from your students and colleagues. They will surprise you and themselves with what they can achieve. William Hill is Regional Executive Director, Midwest, for Partners in School Innovation, whose mission is to transform teaching and learning in the lowest-performing public schools so that every student, regardless of background, thrives. He can be reached at 443.538.2482 or whill@partnersinschools.org. Educational Leadership (MA, EdS, and PhD) Graduate and postgraduate degrees available at WMU locations throughout Southwest Michigan. wmich.edu/extended/masa
MASA Leader - Sprin 2016
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