As Principal Williams Prepares to Depart, Staff and Students Share Memories

The end of the 2010-11 school year at marks the end of a four-year journey for many high school seniors, but it also marks the end of the tenure of Principal Darryl Williams.

On July 1, Williams will begin a new chapter in his academic administration career, taking on the role of Community Superintendent for the Gaithersburg, Clarksburg, Watkins Mill, Magruder and Damascus School Cluster.

Williams is quite proud of his four years at Blair, recollections of which he shared with in early May.

In 2007, when Williams arrived at Blair, the staff and student body knew almost immediately that things were going to be different.

When Mr. Williams arrived at Blair, he addressed the staff by saying, ‘failure is not an option' said resource counselor Marcia Johnson.

“He has worked hard to bring about student success over the years and has made an impact on Blair. He will be missed, but I wish him all the best as he moves into a new position,” said Johnson.

In September of 2007 (at the start of Williams’ first year at Blair) Christopher Jennison, who is a graduate of Blair’s Communication Arts Program worked with Williams to produce the humorous video Fresh Principal of Blair.

Blair’s Student Government 2010-11 Vice President Christina Stiles recalls Principal Williams as being very interested in all aspects of student life.

“Mr. Williams always worked hard to hear the voices of the students" She continued, “he took time out of his schedule to meet with SGA once a week and he always came to every event. I saw him at a few of my lacrosse games too. It is just easy to tell he cares about us and our opinions.”

Claudette Smith, the school’s staff development teacher and student government sponsor, shares Stiles’ view of Williams being very active in student affairs.

“I think he really truly cares that when students leave Blair, they have all of the necessary tools to be successful in whatever they do. I don’t know too many principals who will meet with students every week.”

Smith also expressed some personal feelings about his departure “It’s been a pleasure, and I’ve learned a lot – the school has seen positive changes and I am going to miss him personally.”

In an interview in Silver Chips Online, Blair’s online student newspaper stated his desire to assist his successor. "I am slowly transitioning and learning about my new job while still operating at Blair, and I am committed to helping the new principal make a smooth transition into the job once they are appointed," Williams said.

2010-11 Montgomery County Teacher of the Year, James Schafer, who teaches physics at Blair echoed the recollections of other staff members.

“Mr. Williams always did his best to provide a positive atmosphere at Blair. He genuinely cared about the students and staff and always tried to make the building as welcoming as possible to all members of the community.”

Have a memory, comment or recollection about Principal Williams that you’d like to share? Tell us about it in the comments.