CITE Instructor Feature: Meet Dr. Willis Perry

We’re always beyond excited to celebrate our amazing instructors. Meet, Principal Willis Perry! 🌟

“In 30 years as an educator, I have dedicated myself to ensuring that all students under my care receive the highest level of academic and social-emotional supports.

Upon receiving my B.A. from Adelphi University in 1994, I began my teaching career in Brooklyn, N.Y. Within my 9 years of teaching at P.S. 305 and Hempstead Elementary School in Long Island, I was able to implement a variety of programs that focused on equity and opportunity for all students. Through these successful initiatives, I was encouraged by my Principal to continue my education in the field of Administration and Supervision.

After receiving my administrative certificate from the College of St. Rose in 2003, I was able to obtain an Assistant Principal position at the Scholars’ Academy in Rockaway Park, Queens. I was thrilled about returning to my former middle school building, where I relish so many fond memories. I felt as though this was my calling, this was my chance to give back to the very community that was so significant in my life. After our inaugural year of 2004-2005 we were able to make significant growths in several academic areas as well as structural improvements to the exterior of our school. Previously known as J.H.S. 180, the Scholars’ Academy had to overcome a community that had given up on public school education at the middle school level in the Rockaways. Discouraged, many families turned to the private sectors and elite Brooklyn schools to educate their children. This pattern of discontentment is also apparent in the Brownsville community where I was the Principal for 4 years.

As the leader of the Middle School of Science in Brooklyn, we have exploded with programs that spoke to the needs of the community and helped to shape our school culture. By implementing challenging courses that spiral around science, regents’ prep, sports and extended day clubs, we have increased our attendance rate, decreased discipline incidents and stimulated the learning process for all of our students. With the support of my staff, we took enormous leaps in creating a safe haven for learning. In just 4 years, we were able to break the chain of educational neglect by setting the academic standards at a higher level and parents felt like they had solid options. It was clearly evident that systems have been developed to impact positively on the performance of all groups of students. There is a rich sense of ownership within all constituent groups, critical in the transformation of the school. Every year was planned and developed by the administration, teachers, parents and students. Through collective ideas, a comprehensive blueprint of the year’s goals is clearly defined for all to follow.

At the Middle School of Science, we were able to create an environment that is rigorous in academic expectations while nurturing and addressing many of the adolescent issues that negatively affect middle and high school students. Our students successfully improved academically by showing an 8% increase in both ELA and math State scores when the city average was 3%. Additionally, there was improvement within the NYC report card rating system in which our school showed overall gain.

Within the last 13 years at Lawrence Middle School, I have enjoyed watching my students mature academically, socially and emotionally. My staff and I have been able to impact the lives of students by providing support at every level. Our students have been exposed to a high level of academics which includes the use of technology. They have also had the luxury of a vast selection of extracurricular activities, tutorials and arts program. I’m particularly proud of our SEL room which has helped those students that struggle in large social settings. The room also provides mental health supports with licensed counselors. My role and understanding of leadership has really grown at Lawrence. In recent weeks, I have been discussing “Sevant Leadership” with my Russell Sage students. My approach and/or philosophy focuses on the needs, the growth and well-being of my staff. I look to serve and support my team so that I can help them reach their full potential.

In addition to my work as a building leader, I have been an adjunct professor for over 18 years with the College of St. Rose and Touro College while working with the Center for Integrated Training & Education (CITE). It’s been an amazing opportunity to work with CITE and the colleges as we help to shape the future leaders of tomorrow. I have also employed 4-5 CITE/St. Rose graduates as my assistant principals. I am now working with Russell Sage College where I am enjoying the collaborative approach and deep dive into PSEL standards.

I also keep myself busy in my community where I work as an outreach director for Rising Star Educational Foundation. The organization uses basketball as a vehicle to help student-athletes through all stages of development. With my experience, I look to provide guidance and insightful expertise for the board with regard to academic program development, external partnerships, teacher recruitment, and athletic program development.

In addition, I have my own organization called Quality Athletes Inc. Our goals include the following:
We provide educational opportunities and pathways for international student-athletes at the high school/post grad levels
Help to set up housing for international & domestic student-athletes
Assist with recruitment and marketing players for private, prep and college opportunities.
Give support and provide building block for NIL portfolio.
Look to give financial support and guidance to families associated with related aau organizations ie Rens & Rising Stars HS/College/Pro players with Quality Athletes Inc will have the opportunity to sign with QA or other partnership agencies for marketing & financial guidance and/or to earn money through endorsements, sponsorships, social media, personal appearances, and other ventures while maintaining their eligibility to play college sports

My background and family life…
I’m a graduate of Adelphi University, a former Adelphi College Varsity Basketball player, and a proud father of two sons. Elijah, his eldest son, received a scholarship to play Division 1 basketball for Rider University and then finished up playing for Adelphi University. As a recent graduate in finance, he is interning at Morgan Stanley with hopes of obtaining a full-time position in the company. Luke is presently attending St. John’s University and serves as a manager for the men’s basketball team. Luke also played for the Christ the King Royals where he was an impact player for a highly competitive and legendary program.

Finally, I also am also a on the board of directors for Lawrence Woodmere Academy. I have had the opportunity to contribute to the mission of launching LWA 2.0.”

Are you interested in furthering your education and want to get into administration? Learn more at www.citesageadmin.com or email Diane@citeprograms.com