By Jefferson Díaz
The Truth Reporter
Willie Ward is a natural born teacher. As we settle into the library at the Martin Luther King Jr. Academy for Boys, Ward straightens his suit and tie and brings two bottles of water. He tells me to excuse him in advance if he starts talking nonstop about his profession, but being a teacher is his passion. A passion that brought him to this school 16 years ago from where he will retire in July.
What do you think is your legacy at the Martin Luther King Jr. Academy?
Treat students with kindness and respect. That’s a question that I’ve asked myself several times in recent days and I want my legacy to be: kindness and respect. I’ve taught students from diverse backgrounds and origins, and I’ve given each one the opportunity to develop their skills and potential by simply listening to what they have to say. You don’t have to be a restrictive or disrespectful teacher in order to get to them.
Do you think they’ll miss you here once you retire?
Yes, I think so. When I arrived in 2009 I started as assistant principal and since then my job has been to uphold the values this institution offers and to be a link between the academy and the neighborhood. I have provided students with the best tools to succeed.
What needs to be the person who replaces you?
I know TPS is already conducting interviews for this position. I’ve tried to find out what parameters they’re using to hire the new principal, but they haven’t told me much. The person who comes in should be a seasoned teacher, who knows the community and who understands the values of this school.
I know he or she will have the help from the staff to adapt.
What are the values of this academy?
Respect. Responsibility. Relationships. Every morning, before the students begin classes, they repeat the academy’s motto, which inspires them to be respectful to everyone, fulfill their responsibilities on time and effectively and foster positive relationships with others. It’s a motto that inspires them to believe in themselves and feel proud of attending this institution.
This is an academy that requires their students to wear uniforms and you have installations that would compete with any private school.
Yes, we’re a public school with private school privileges. And you can quote me on that. Our work with the community and with TPS sets us apart because we want to offer to the 170 students we have the best education possible. Here they won’t just learn Math, English, or Science; they’ll also learn that they can be successful and break cycles of violence and poverty.
What will you do after retirement?
I’ll continue teaching. I’ll never stop being a teacher. Although my wife wants us to do some things left over from our honeymoon first—he laughs—I’ll always return to the classroom.