Outstanding NAU extended campus student

1. 9/27/09
Article re Jami Williams
Far away from the bright lights of Phoenix, east of the majestic mountains in Flagstaff, in the tiny little
town of Holbrook, is a woman on a mission. Jami Williams is on a mission to help facilitate exceptional,
learning-centered education in rural Arizona.
Jami grew up in Taylor, Michigan, and graduated from high school with honors; she was president of the
student government, Vice-President of the National Honor Society and co-captain of the track team.
With credentials like these, Jami could write her own ticket. What she chose was a career commitment
to rural elementary education. Upon completion of her teaching degree from Northern Arizona
University, Jami taught kindergarten and third grade before returning to NAU for her Master’s in
Educational Leadership.
This fall Jamie assumed her new position as Instructional Coach at the elementary school in Indian Wells,
Arizona. Indian Wells is a town of about 2,500 people. The elementary school serves about 400 students
from pre-kindergarten through 6th grade on the Navajo Nation. Working with Native American students
and their families has been a rewarding experience, and Jami’s enthusiasm is clear. She is always looking
for innovative and creative methods that lead to a supportive learning environment. “I love my job and
feel supported.”
Jami’s educational philosophy includes compassion, learning-centered instruction, and whole child
concepts. Karen Estridge, a 2nd grade teacher at Indian Wells Elementary, described Jami as the ‘wearer
of many hats,’ and appreciates her professionalism, helpfulness and willingness to learn and listen to the
staff.
The expansion of innovative programs -- like her Indian Wells Elementary Math and Reading nights,
which now includes a Spelling Bee, and Cultural and Technical nights -- have resulted in significant
community and parental involvement, with over 400 parents in attendance.
For her teaching degree, Jamie attended Northern Arizona University, Show Low Campus. This meant
that she could enjoy the quality of an NAU education and finish her degree program locally.
After one of her Education professors encouraged her to apply to NAU’s doctoral program, Jami
decided to continue her education. “I’m always thinking ahead. I will continue my education in spring
2010, with the goal of becoming a principal or eventually a superintendent of schools, or even working
with the Arizona Department of Education, so that I can make a positive contribution to the policies that
impact students’ lives.”