Kevin Williams

Principal, Norwood Elementary

Miami, Florida

Fellow

A Miami native and product of Miami-Dade public schools, Dr. Kevin N. Williams is a beloved principal at Norwood Elementary School. His experience as a former math teacher at the school has helped him earn the trust and respect of the faculty. Students know him well, and teachers turn to him for advice. At this high-need, minority campus, students are thriving.

Hands-on and dedicated, Williams provides valuable resources to the school, community, and fosters collaboration and teamwork among his staff to get the job done. Even after assuming the principalship, he has maintained a direct impact on the classrooms. He frequently models lessons for teachers and also tutors students who need extra help. Williams gets students excited about learning by motivating and rewarding them for academic excellence.

He holds day and evening events to encourage parental involvement, including “Donuts and Dads,” “Grandparents Day” and other creative events. Williams can also be found supporting the chess team, which competes at state and national levels. Dr. Williams has received several distinguished awards: Milken Family Educational Award, South Florida Top Black Educator Award, Legacy Black Educator Award, just to name a few.

Dr. Williams’ devotion and drive to bring out the best in others extends beyond the campus. Williams is heavily involved in the community and his local church, where he serves as the Senior Pastor. Dr. Williams received his undergraduate degrees from Florida Memorial University, his Master of Science from Florida International University, and his Doctorate from Nova Southeastern University.

Lisa Monica

Teacher, Norwood Elementary

Miami, Florida

ALLY

In her 14 years as a Florida educator, Lisa Monica has been privileged to work with students and teachers in a variety of elementary grade levels. Currently, Lisa teaches 5th grade students at Norwood Elementary School in Miami Gardens.

Lisa earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Nova Southeastern University and M.Ed. in Reading Education from Florida International University. Lisa is a member of her school’s leadership team, involved in analyzing data and continually setting and reviewing school goals for the School Improvement Plan.

Lisa also serves as the current Chair of the Educational Excellence School Advisory Council.