Welcome to Mr. Williams' Page (2021-22)

BIO: I am a born-and-raised Californian, originally from the North Coast. I attended and graduated from Fortuna Union High School in 1990. When I am not thinking about teaching Social Studies, I enjoy traveling and games of all sorts, though especially tabletop games. I moved to the Bay area during the 1990s. After I came to the Bay,  I eventually finished my college studies so that I could become a teacher. As a second-career teacher, I like to hope that outside perspectives help me better serve my students. 

In addition to a love of history and people in society, I also really love games. Games are important to our understanding of how people connect and how ideas connect. They help us better know each other and better know the world.

Inspiration 

"Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it." - George Santayana

"History never looks like history when you are living through it. It always looks confusing and messy, and it always feels uncomfortable." - John W. Gardner

College 
I studied at Laney College in Oakland, before I transferring to UC Berkeley, where I received a Bachelor's Degree in History in 2009. I earned a teaching credential through study in the Mills College Teachers for Tomorrow's Schools program. I later completed a Masters Degree in Education, also at Mills College. I have taught each of the California-required Social Studies courses including World History, US History, Government and Economics, as well as World Geography.

District Tools I Use

Attendance
I take attendance using Aeries within the first 5 minutes of class. Students who are not seated once the bell rings are considered tardy.  You can stay on top of attendance through the Aeries Family Portal or Aeries App

Report Cards
I use Aeries to generate report cards. Families can view report cards directly through the Aeries Family Portal.

Gradebook
I use the Aeries Gradebook so students and their parent-guardians can view grades through the Aeries Family Portal or Aeries App.  I update grades almost daily; if something is blank it means there is no credit. The best way to ensure you are aware of all that happens in class to check in on your scholar's progress weekly.

Blackboard Connect
I use Blackboard Connect to communicate with families at home. These communications will be in regards to upcoming communication, tests and projects so that you can assist your scholar in preparing for success as well as grading deadlines for late and missing work.