Newton County Faculties has introduced that Dr. Jennifer Williams, director of educational expertise and media providers, has been named the Southeast’s 2026 Progressive Chief Award winner by Tech & Studying. Williams is amongst a choose group of district leaders throughout the nation honored for remodeling instructing and studying by means of innovation.
The Tech & Studying Progressive Chief Awards acknowledge distinctive directors who’re advancing future-ready schooling by means of strategic expertise integration, scalable programs and a dedication to fairness and alternative. Winners are chosen by Tech & Studying editors, with solely 4 to 5 leaders acknowledged per regional summit, making the award extremely aggressive on each a regional and nationwide stage.
Williams was chosen for her transformational management in constructing a scalable, future-ready digital studying ecosystem in Newton County Faculties. Her work consists of implementing the 3E Mannequin—Have interaction, Expose, Expertise—a research-based framework designed to reinforce scholar studying, in addition to fostering impactful partnerships with organizations comparable to Amazon. She has additionally led signature initiatives together with the district’s annual Train for Tomorrow Know-how Convention, InspiHER: Code Like a Woman, and literacy-focused efforts like Learn Throughout Newton.
“Dr. Jennifer Williams is an excellent instance of progressive management,” stated Christine Weiser, Content material Director for Tech & Studying. “She really ‘walks the stroll’ by means of her many inspiring packages. By embracing the 3E Mannequin, Dr. Williams helps guarantee her district’s college students are ready for the long run they select. We might add a fourth ‘E’ to her work: Power. Dr. Williams exudes it continually, particularly in her ardour for literacy and expertise.”
Williams stated the popularity displays the collective efforts of her group and the broader college neighborhood.
“I’m extremely honored to be named the Southeast’s 2026 Progressive Chief,” stated Dr. Williams. “This recognition is a mirrored image of the work occurring throughout our whole Tutorial Know-how and Media Providers group. From strengthening literacy by means of digital sources to constructing a related educational ecosystem with instruments like Canvas, Ebook Creator and AI, this work represents a shared dedication to our college students, academics, and households. Whereas I’m grateful for the popularity, I’m much more grateful for the chance to serve and help our faculties daily.”
Dr. Shelia Thomas, Chief of Technique and Assist Providers for Newton County Faculties, praised Dr. Williams’ management and affect.
“Dr. Williams has been instrumental in shaping a imaginative and prescient for instructing and studying that’s each progressive and sustainable,” Thomas stated. “Her potential to attach expertise with significant educational practices has created alternatives for college students and academics throughout our district. This recognition is well-deserved and speaks to the lasting affect of her management.”
