Elizabeth Orosco
Northeast News

This coming school year, James Elementary will be under the leadership of a new principal, David Williams.

Mr. Williams met with parents and students Friday, July 19, to introduce himself, give his background and vision for the school.

He said he is excited to build relationships with the community as he transitions into this new role.

Mr. Williams has been in elementary education for the last 35 years, eight of those as a teacher, and 27 spent in administration or as an elementary school principal.

For the last 18 years he has been principal of Prairie Park Elementary school in Lawrence, Kansas. He has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a masters degree in elementary administration, as well as a counseling degree.

He also taught in Arizona, working with students who are English Language Learners (ELL).

“Kids are kids,” he said. “Helping kids learn to read and be successful in math and learn to be great thinkers is universal.”

He said the strong community aspect is what drew him to this new position.

“I love being in neighborhoods where there is this sense of community and that’s what drew me to this school. When I heard people talk about it, people were drawn to be a part of this school and support this school.”

Mr. Williams said he has met with Manny Abarca, Kansas City Public Schools Sub-district Three representative to discuss the future of the school and feels encouraged at the level of support he has received.

“He’s been very instrumental in helping and is very supportive of the school.”

He said they are collaborating on various projects including fencing the parking lot and working to get new playground equipment for the school.

“A lot of people in the community use this as a park and we’d like to get that playground equipment replaced as quickly as possible,” Mr. Williams said.

After meeting with Dr. Mark Bedell, Kansas City Public Schools Superintendent, Mr. Williams said he loves the mission and focus on doing what’s right for the kids.

“Kansas City Public Schools has been working really hard to get re-accredited,” he said. “I’ve met with Dr. Bedell and it’s exciting to work for someone who has such a clear focus and such a drive to make this the best school district in the city.”

After meeting parents and students at the meet-and-greet, Mr. Williams said ultimately, he is ready to begin developing relationships.
“It’s my passion, it’s been my life, and I’m excited to be here to help.”