Adrian, MI – For Gina Williams, stepping into leadership at the JC/LISD Academy isn't simply a new position.

It feels a little like coming home.

Williams, who previously taught English at the Academy, has returned this school year as principal, bringing with her years of experience in the classroom, teacher development, instructional coaching and student support.

“I feel so fortunate to once again be a part of such an extraordinary educational community,” Williams said. “I am honored to help lead the program into this next chapter.”

Her return comes with a perspective shaped by more than two decades in education.

Williams began her career in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, spending more than 20 years in the classroom after earning a bachelor's degree in Secondary English Education from Southeastern Louisiana University.

While earning her master's degree at the University of Michigan, she transitioned into teacher education, serving as a field instructor and content methods facilitator in the university's alternative certification program.

Eventually, her path brought her to Lenawee County and the JC/LISD Academy, where she taught English and experienced firsthand the community she is now being asked to lead.

“I have such fond memories of teaching here,” Williams said. “What has always stood out to me about the Academy is the strong relationships between students and staff and the sense of community.”

For the past five years, Williams has served as an instructional coach at the LISD TECH Center, working alongside educators while also supporting students. She will continue in that role while serving as Academy principal.

Along the way, she also continued her own education, most recently earning an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University.

Each of those experiences gives Williams a different lens as she returns to the Academy. She understands the classroom as a longtime teacher, knows the importance of supporting educators through her work as a coach and has seen how meaningful relationships can shape a student's experience.

She also returns already knowing the people and culture that make the Academy what it is.

“Having previously worked at the Academy, I know how deeply talented and dedicated the staff is and how tirelessly they pour into our students each and every day,” Williams said. “It's a privilege to work alongside colleagues I respect so much, and I'm eager to support them as we build on the great work already happening here.”

The JC/LISD Academy provides students an opportunity to complete their high school education while earning college credit through Jackson College. But for Williams, what students take with them should extend well beyond a diploma or the credits they've earned.

“Above all, I hope our students leave the Academy with unwavering confidence in who they are and what they can achieve,” she said. “I want them to leave the Academy knowing they belonged to a community that truly saw them, supported them, and pushed them to grow.”

It's a message Williams especially wants the students just beginning their Academy experience to understand.

“You aren't doing this alone,” she said. “You are joining a school filled with caring, supportive staff who are completely invested in your growth and determined to help you succeed.”

Years ago, Williams was one of those staff members welcoming students into her classroom.

Now she's coming back to help lead the entire community forward.