LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Emily Williams

Position: Principal
School: North Jones Elementary School
School District: Jones County Schools
City, State: Laurel, MS

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Emily Williams was nominated by a parent of a student, Brandi Tradewell.

"Emily Williams has been a light in the darkness for our family and others. We have a special needs student, and Emily has been an advocate, a source of knowledge, a confidant, and so much more. She has helped navigate the waters to bridge [the gap between] special needs and 'regular' students, to inform and educate on the subject," said Tradewell. "She has cried with us and for us."

"The love, patience, care, and protection she offers is invaluable. To say we are forever grateful is a powerful understatement. She truly cares for her students and staff; you can see it in every aspect of her work and who she is. She creates a safe and positive environment. She sees the strengths in each child and uses those gifts to help them encourage them to achieve all their hopes and dreams," said Tradewell.

"If we had more educators like her, our children would be unstoppable. She sees each child and their needs individually and acts according to what best suits the child in not only education but also life. She has created a lasting impact on so many students and families. For us, Mrs. Williams is more than a principal; she is an unsung hero," said Tradewell.

Comments (15)

Amanda Nance Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Williams is most deserving of this award! She has a passion for serving others in the field of education. There has never been a time that I felt she did not have our best interest at heart and she has always made sure we know she is in our corner to help in anyway possible.

Nilda Witty Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Williams is a dedicated and influential administrator. Who always seeks to support the students and teachers in their best interest. Her passion demonstrates her leadership role in the school atmosphere. We appreciate her openness to listen to our concerns and ideas. Mrs. Williams takes advantage of opportunities to give positive feedback when it is appropriate and suggestions when they are needed.

Lori Coleman Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Williams is an outstanding administrator. She is a very hard worker and leads by example. Her passion and enthusiasm for learning is evident. We are blessed to have her at NJE!

Fetina Sullivan-Anderson Posted over a year ago

Emily’s administrative skills are fantastic. She is a go getter who is determined to do all that she can for the betterment of our school. She is goal oriented, which is an important quality to have in education. Just by being around Emily, people can tell that she loves what she does. It is not just a job to her. It is a career to help her positively impact everyone within the school environment. She has a compassion for helping others and always lifts people up with encouraging words that make them want to do their best.

Jena Yeager Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Williams' passion and devotion to our students at North Jones is unmatched; working under her as a first year teacher has been not only insightful, but such an inspiration! Mrs. Williams has the best interest of each and every student in her heart and mind and it shows every single day.

Carla Hodge Posted over a year ago

Emily Williams is wonderful and supportive administrator. She’s energetic, loves the students, and is willing to go above and beyond to support her staff. Emily is definitely worthy of this award! #LCOTY

Suzie Walker Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Williams is very passionate about education. She is involved in every aspect of our school. She promotes school spirit. She sets high expectations for teachers and students, but provides a supportive role in the achievement of them. She encourages cooperation, as well as friendly competition. She is knowledgeable, confident, and assertive- ideal qualities of a supervising principal. She is an excellent decision-maker and a natural born leader. She definitely leaves a life-changing impact on those with whom she works and leads. She would be an excellent recipient for this honor.

Dawn Brooks Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Williams takes the time to reassure everyone that she is there for them. She truly cares. She is supports her teacher, staff, parents and students. Everyone is important to her!

Monica Scarbrough Posted over a year ago

Emily is a a hard worker that strives to make a difference in not only her school but each child!

Brooke Wagner Posted over a year ago

So deserving! Our children are so lucky to have you as their principal! You always have their back 100%!

Monica Posted over a year ago

Go Emily Williams!

Heather Mclaurin Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Williams is a wonderful person to work for and always supportive of her teachers, students, and staff.

Sonja Posted over a year ago

Emily is an amazing principal. As one of her employees, I feel confident that she has my back as well as the best interest of our children at the school. The student love her and the teacher’s love her. Emily is professional in everything that she does.

Danielle Manasco Posted over a year ago

Emily has been both a coworker and my supervising principal. She has always went above the call of duty in all roles she fills. It has been a privilege to work with her and for her sharing in her vision and energy. I have seen her in the most impossible situations lead with grace and compassion and I can not think of anyone more deserving of this award.

Emily Welborn Posted over a year ago

I have to add. As a Special Education teacher under Mrs. Williams, I can say that she is such a breath of fresh air. When many do not understand, she makes a way to understand Special Education. This is because she truly cares for all students and most definitely sees the strengths in all. Her passion is undeniable.