Erica Williams
HARRIETT BALL EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING - KIPP St. Louis Public Schools
Erica Williams of KIPP Wisdom Academy in St. Louis, MO is honored with the 2024 Harriett Ball Excellence in Teaching Award. This award recognizes outstanding teachers from the KIPP network. The winning teachers, nominated by their school leaders, were recognized for their leadership and dedication to improving outcomes for students.
Ms. Williams is an exceptional teacher who consistently puts students on a path to academic success. At the beginning of the 2022 school year, 23% of her students were on grade level on the DIBELS diagnostic and by the end of the year, 72% of students were on grade level. That year, her classes posted the highest growth and achievement in all first-grade classes in the region.
Now, teaching 3rd grade, she enables students to take charge of their learning, often asking, "We reviewed an important idea yesterday, but I forgot. Can you help me today?" She serves as a grade level chair, instructional coach, and mentor teacher. She’s a wellspring of love and wisdom. Her classroom feels like a big hug, fostering kindness and affirmation among her students.