Celebrating Leadership and Innovation in Bellevue: A Conversation with William Jackson

William Jackson, the Bellevue School District’s new Director of Teaching and Learning, recently shared his journey as an educational leader and the initiatives he is passionate about in a candid conversation. Jackson, who earned the prestigious Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) Secondary Principal of the Year award for his leadership at Nathan Hale High School in Seattle, expressed pride in the collective efforts of his colleagues as well as excitement for the future of education in Bellevue. 

Collaboration and Leadership 

Jackson emphasized the importance of collaboration in creating an effective learning environment, acknowledging the outstanding work of principals and assistant principals throughout the district.  

"This award is all of us, on any given day. My work has been highlighted, but all of our leaders are doing amazing work," he said.  

As a Black leader, Jackson expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that it creates opportunities for other Black and Brown leaders to showcase their leadership and inspire future generations. 

Reimagining Middle Schools 

One of Jackson’s key contributions in Bellevue is leading the Reimagining Middle Schools initiative. His focus is on ensuring that students find joy and a sense of belonging in their middle school experience. Jackson is a firm believer in Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and advisory programs, which help students engage deeply with their education.  

"We need to make sure our kiddos find their love of learning," he stated, adding that these initiatives help foster that connection in a meaningful way. 

Commitment to Equity - The Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

Jackson is also excited about the district’s Black Excellence work and its impact on annual plans and grading practices, which support equitable access to high-quality education for all students. "I find joy in these efforts," Jackson shared, emphasizing his role in shaping curriculum and course offerings district wide. His leadership ensures that all students, regardless of background, have access to equitable learning experiences and high academic outcomes. 

As a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Jackson stressed that supporting all identities is crucial, not just in education, but also in the global economy. He believes students must develop the skills necessary to work in diverse and inclusive environments to succeed in today’s world. 

A Journey to Education 

Jackson’s path to becoming an educator was influenced by his parents, his college experience, and his desire to support Black students. He reflected on how his work-study job in admissions and a transformative class on discipline and punishment inspired him to pursue education. Drawing from influential books and authors such as Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois, Jackson brings a deep understanding of historical context and diverse perspectives to his work. 

Transformational Leadership and Growth 

Jackson shared stories of his early teaching days and the challenges he faced, including how student feedback helped him grow as an educator. From teaching relevant content like the Trayvon Martin case to advocating for curriculum and grading improvements as a principal, Jackson’s journey is one of continuous growth and transformational leadership. His work advocating for better hiring practices and creating inclusive classroom environments has been pivotal in his rise as an educational leader. 

Looking Ahead 

Looking to the future, Jackson is excited about the trajectory of the Bellevue School District and the work ahead. His focus on innovative practices like PBL and equitable curriculum development positions him as a key leader in shaping the district’s educational landscape. "I’m excited for where we’re at in our trajectory and where we’re going," he said, reflecting his commitment to fostering an inclusive, enriching, and academically rigorous environment for all students. 

The Bellevue community is fortunate to have leaders like William Jackson, who are committed to driving innovation, equity, and excellence in our schools. His dedication to student engagement and collective leadership will continue to make a positive impact on the district.