Dr. Preston Williams. Jr. is the Deputy Superintendent
of Curriculum and Instruction for District #116. Preston
came to us from Kankakee, Illinois. He completed his undergraduate
degree at Indiana State University as a double major in
social science education and African American Studies
with an emphasis on political science and U.S. History.
Preston developed an interest in education at an early
age. He began tutoring as a junior in high school as he
enjoyed helping younger children. He continued to tutor
elementary school children through his high school the
summer of his senior year and continued to enjoy his experiences.
His teaching experiences first began at Kankakee East
Ridge High School as a permanent substitute for sixth
months.
He then began teaching in the special education area
at an alternative education center, while receiving his
S.E.D. (Social and Emotionally Disturbed) certification
in night classes through Illinois State University and
the National College of Education. He then received a
job offer from Champaign Centennial High School to teach
U.S. History and consumer education. Then he moved onto
District 116, first to teach at UHS and then as an assistant
principal at UMS. The next step in his career was a move
over to Central Office as the Director of Human Resources,
and finally to the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum
and Instruction in 1998.
Preston and his wife, Ivy were married in 1983 and have
two children, Jacquelyn and Preston III. Ivy is employed
in Champaign Unit Four School District.
Preston received his Ed.D. in May 2000 and is now the
Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. His
hobbies include: reading, chess, backgammon, walking,
traveling, coaching, and spending time with his family.
Preston enjoys working for Urbana School District 116
and living in the community of Champaign-Urbana. "My
favorite part of living in this community is the people
because Champaign-Urbana has such a diverse population,
racially and culturally. Living in a university town has
many positives. My family has the opportunity to be a
part of many different cultures in a small area. I think
that is great!"
