Adonis Williams: The Importance of a Holistic Education

(above) Adonis Williams will be teaching at the Rectory School in Connecticut this fall.

Adonis Williams ’14 is a graduate of Cardigan, Brooks School, and Adelphi University; most recently he earned his MBA from the Lubin School of Business at Pace University. He’s a youth mentor with Inspiring Young Minds and the Boys Club of New York and an active participant in the Cardigan Career Network. This fall he will begin his career at the Rectory School in Pomfret, Connecticut, where he will be teaching fifth-grade math and pre-algebra.

Please share your thoughts on the state of education in the United States.

I think education in the U.S. is heading in the right direction and is continually evolving. Innovative teaching methods and technology integration are improving student engagement and learning outcomes.

What do you anticipate will be the hardest part of your job?

I anticipate that the hardest part of teaching will be getting used to being in front of the class and introducing new material. I also feel that lesson planning will be another challenging aspect. Balancing time between administrative duties and student interactions might also be difficult.

Where do you find hope?

I find hope within my own family; they push me to be great in everything I do. Their unwavering support and encouragement inspire me to overcome challenges and strive for excellence.

Which former teacher inspired you to teach?

Cardigan theater teacher Jeff Good inspired me to teach; he encourages students to think outside the box, leading them to expand their knowledge and maximize their education. His creative approach and genuine care for students’ growth left a lasting impression on me.

Does your Cardigan education reflect your current teaching style?

Yes, my Cardigan education reflects my current teaching style. It instilled in me the importance of a holistic education—focusing on both academic and personal development—which I aim to incorporate into my teaching.

What are the myths about education that you’d like to change?

I want to change the myth that “most teachers don’t care.” I’m looking to do this by going above and beyond for my students, mentoring them, and promoting public recognition of their achievements. Building strong relationships with students and showing genuine interest in their successes can make a significant impact.

What do you do in the summer to recharge?

During the summer, I like to spend time with family and friends. This downtime allows me to relax, reflect, and prepare for the upcoming school year with renewed energy and enthusiasm.