A familiar face will soon be guiding Spartanburg District Five's newest teachers, as the district has named Dr. Ashley Williams as its newest Coordinator of Mentoring and Induction.
Dr. Williams currently serves as the Principal of Beech Springs Middle School, where she has played a key role in strengthening instruction, supporting teacher development, and guiding the school through a successful transition to a middle school campus. Prior to that, she served as Principal of Beech Springs Intermediate School and Assistant Principal at D.R. Hill Middle School. While at D.R. Hill, Dr. Williams received the honor of South Carolina Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year.
Dr. Williams began her career in the classroom as a high school Social Studies teacher, before moving back home to lead in Spartanburg District Five. "Being a Principal in District Five has been the honor of a lifetime," says Williams. "While it is bittersweet to step away from that role, this opportunity gives me the chance to make a broader impact, serving teachers districtwide, not only in one school."
In her new role, Dr. Williams will lead the district's mentoring and induction efforts, supporting new teachers through coaching, professional learning, and programs designed to strengthen teacher success and retention. "As we continue to face a national and statewide teacher shortage, it's critical that we give our newest educators the support and guidance they need to grow in the classroom," says Superintendent Dr. Randall Gary. "I can think of no one more capable and ready for that role than Dr. Ashley Williams."
Dr. Williams has a Bachelors in Secondary Education from Clemson University, as well as a Masters and Educational Specialist degree from Arkansas State. She earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from South Carolina State University. A proud graduate of Byrnes High School and Spartanburg District Five, she brings a deep personal connection to the district.
"My own daughter is a student here, and from a parent's perspective, it's important to me that she has excellent teachers who are equipped with the tools they need to succeed," says Williams. "This position will allow me to do that, and I'm excited for this next step."
Dr. Williams will officially begin her new role July 1. Congratulations to Dr. Ashley Williams!