Heather Williams

Heather P. Williams, Ph.D. has over thirty years of experience in public education, serving both in higher education and K-12 systems as a superintendent, principal, curriculum director, teacher, coach, researcher, school improvement consultant, and professor.  During her superintendent tenure, her district saw an increase in student achievement and improved graduation rates – especially for marginalized students. The district was able to close the longstanding achievement gaps between student groups K-12, especially those students from poverty, emerging bilingual, and Latinx populations. Under her leadership, the district was also able to increase its fund balance, improve district operations and facilities, and increase teacher retention. The district and Williams were recognized for their efforts including regional, state, and national awards.  She has made hundreds of presentations at state, regional, and national conferences on issues relating to leading change, school improvement, school governance, school finance, and the work of superintendents. Williams remains an active member of the American Assoc. of School Administrators, and the Idaho School Superintendent’s Assoc. where she has held state and regional offices, including Chair of the state Legislative and Finance committees. Dr. Williams is currently a professor and the Program Coordinator for Executive Educational Leadership at Boise State University. Her research interests include systems leadership, complexity theories in education, and policy implementation to improve rural communities.