New Teacher Spotlight — Patrice Williams

There are three new teachers in the New London School District this year. Today you will meet Patrice Williams. She is teaching fourth grade this school year. Before taking the fourth grade position, she has also worked as an elementary para-educator and subbed as well. She was also the long term substitute teacher for kindergarten.

Williams attended high school at Joliet Central High School in Joliet, Illinois. She moved to Iowa to attend Iowa Wesleyan, but made the switch to SCC where she earned her AA degree. She graduated from Buena Vista with a B.A. degree.

Williams has high marks for her experience at Clark Elementary. She said, “My experience at New London has been both enriching and rewarding. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of students, each bringing their unique perspectives and talents to the classroom. The support from administration, other teachers, and the community has been invaluable. I’ve been able to participate in various professional development workshops, which have enhanced my skills and informed my approach to teaching.”

In her life away from teaching, she is married to Bayquon McDonald. He works at the prison in Mt. Pleasant and is a staff sergeant in the National Guard. Patrice is mom to Bayquon (9) and Brayson (5). She enjoys family outings and hanging out with her friends. When she gets a little free time, she loves rewatching her favorite TV shows “Supernatural” and “Criminal Minds.”

Williams has always had a dream to work with kids. She can’t see herself in any other position. She says of her students, “I have high expectations for my students in the most positive way. I know that they are capable of anything they put their minds to.”

We would like to welcome Patrice to Clark Elementary as the new fourth grade teacher. Here’s to a great year!