A Conversation With Cheree Williams

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

Social Emotional Learning and Emotional Intelligence are so important in this extremely emotional world. Being a creature of emotion myself, I remember my struggles as a student. I strive to provide a better relational experience in order to help empower student learning.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

Always “keep it real” when dialoguing with students, especially in the middle level school grades. Students can spot an insincere person from a mile away. And truly, all you need is love (plus content, of course).

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

There are several challenges in this day-and-age, but two stand out to me. I believe with economical challenges come parents, like myself, struggling to make a living for their families, affecting the balance at home. I also believe that our children suffer from overstimulation in today’s electronic age. Navigating through instant gratification can prove difficult.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

I believe we have a real ability to affect future generations positively by interpersonal communication, high standards, differentiation, and love.