Brian Zemlicka, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Welcome Message
Dear Willis ISD Parents and Community,
We want to welcome you and your child to our school district and hope it has been a very positive and rewarding experience. It is important that every child has the opportunity to be successful as they grow both mentally and physically to become productive young adults. This philosophy can only happen if we as educators, parents, and community members work together as one. We, as a district, have adopted the motto, “Together Building Our Future”. Our school district is the backbone of our community and together we can and will continue to improve the quality of education at every level for every child.
As a school district, we want to express how important your child and their success is to us. Your involvement is vital in helping us educate every child that walks through our doors. As parents, you are the heart and soul of your child. As a school district, we provide the platform to build their knowledge and skills, but Together We Can Build Our Future.
Research shows children who fall behind in first grade have a one in eight chance of ever catching up to grade level without extraordinary efforts. On the positive side, research also shows parents involved with their child’s education more times than not have children that are healthy, love to read and are motivated to please.
Reading is the foundation of education. Teaching children to love reading guarantees many successes in life. As a parent, reading a book out loud makes it your own. The very idea of reading to a child gives you permission to step outside yourself to become the character you wish to be. You are able to become a kid again and at the same time create a unique treasure for you and your child.
If your children are older, then they have the opportunity to step outside themselves while they read to you. Children glow with excitement when they are able to showcase their reading skills to parents and friends. Not only does reading build specific skills for learning, it also increases valuable family time as well as provides subjects to discuss.
We urge every parent to spend at least one hour a week reading to or listening to your child read. This simple task will build important reading skills and strengthen the family bond you share with your child. Reading is addictive and through this addiction children can learn more about the world we live in.
I urge you along with your children to become involved in our community and school to recognize Willis is a growing community that offers a great place to work, live, and raise a family. This small effort along with reading with your child can provide the spark that leads to a passion of life-long learning. We want to welcome you to our schools and urge you to become involved, because Together We Can Build Our Future.
Together Building Our Future
Leadership Framework
I want to welcome you to our school district and website. I am honored to serve the Willis Independent School District as superintendent to provide the BEST education for our young people in both academics and extra-curricular activities. This school district is the backbone of our community and working together we can and will continue to improve the quality of education at every level for every child.
Willis, Texas is a great place to work, live and raise a family. To find out more about our district, please explore our website. If you have a question about our district, please call our central office and someone will be pleased to help you. I have enclosed the following Leadership Framework to help inform you about me and the foundation that supports my educational philosophy.
Philosophy of Education
Education is the process by which every individual regardless of age, learn. The purpose of education is to provide every individual with the skills that enable them to compete, contribute, and meet the challenges in a changing complex society. Education is a community endeavor and each member of the community is entitled to an appropriate education.
Philosophy of Leadership
Leadership is the art of guiding and working with people so they may reach their highest capabilities. Leadership is the ability to create a vision, set the goals, and work with stakeholders to attain those goals. The superintendent is the visionary for the district. To be successful, the superintendent must see the end and then start at the beginning.
Vision for Learners
All children can learn and have intrinsic worth and unique value. Children should have the opportunity to reach their maximum potential. Higher expectations produce the potential for higher results. As children experience life’s changes, they grow. The ability to adapt to these changes comes from within.
Vision for Teachers
Teachers are the cornerstones of education. They nurture young minds in a supportive and positive atmosphere so that one-day all their students may accomplish their dreams. Teachers are accountable for motivating each child in the classroom. With proper support of the school system and community, teachers can educate students to their fullest potential. Teachers should strive to continue their own education, in order to implement successful teaching practices.
Vision for the Organization
The organization should be a place that is safe, positive, and conducive for learning. Successful organizations are well managed. Every stakeholder has a role in the decision-making process. Because of the impact of the organization, it is a vital part of the community. The organization must meet the needs of all involved in order for students to succeed. The mission of the organization must be clear and attainable.
Vision for Professional Growth
Profession growth through higher education and staff development is a never-ending process. Educators must always strive to improve their methods and abilities. Working with school administrators, teachers develop action plans and acquire the training to increase their knowledge of appropriate teaching styles for student success. It is important that all school personnel know and understand the goal of the organization and are willing improve their own teaching development to reach that goal.
Method of Vision Attainment
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to create a vision that will create success for all involved. He must enlist the entire organization and community to build productive relationships. It is important that everyone has a function in the attainment of the vision. As educators, we teach children to dream and to work toward those dreams. The same is true for a school or school district. A community must have a vision of what they want their school to accomplish. Involving everyone and allowing him or her to be involved in the attainment process will ensure the vision can become reality.