When stepping into a new chapter in life, it’s important to have a good guide. Lamanzer Williams, Skyline’s new 9th grade dean, is trying to be that guide. Since November, he’s been helping freshmen acclimate to high school life.
After having his position as Slauson Middle School’s intervention specialist cut, he was on the search for a new job. “We were laid off due to district budget cuts,” says Williams. “[A position at Skyline] opened up in late October, and so that’s why being laid off perpetuated me to come over to Skyline.”
Williams learned about Skyline through his contacts.
“I knew people that worked here,” says Williams. “They spoke positively about the place. I was already connected with the district, and it was an opportunity to get back.”
As a ninth grade dean, Williams works to provide students with the guidance and support they need to adapt to the difficulties of high school. He helps with the problems that occur with social, academics, athletics and arts, so that students can start their high school journey with confidence. “[I] help them, show them the ropes when they get in trouble, sort of discipline them in a restorative way,” says Williams. “Or provid[e] them grace and also teach … them at the same time, so they are able to learn from those situations.”
With 20 years experience in administration, and being a former athlete, Williams is well suited for the role. “I feel like I can relate to all students,” says Williams. “I’m a people person. I’m a person that excels working directly, hands-on with students.”
One of his goals is to push students to success and motivate them through their high school life. “I can tell you how to succeed,” says Williams. “I came from a humble family that needed a lot of support, humble beginnings, and so it’s going to be hard for a student in this climate to convince me that they can’t be successful.”
Now, Williams is trying to figure out how he can be helpful to staff and the admin team. He wants to be a positive force in the school’s work environment.
“My goal was always to be a positive influence so we can have a harmonious workplace, like you want to have your job where people enjoy coming to work,” says Williams. “They feel comfortable at work — valued — and they feel safe at work.”
Williams has a long educational and athletic background. He accepted a football scholarship with the ability to play basketball at the University of Minnesota. Afterwards, he was drafted to the NFL and played for four years there.
“I spent four years at Minnesota before I was drafted into the National Football League,” says Williams. “Played four years in the NFL. After a few injuries piled up such as three screws in each shoulder, I was able to finish.”
Williams earned his bachelor’s from Eastern Michigan University, his master’s in sports administration from Concordia University, and finally, his educational leadership master’s degree from Grand Valley State University.
“I want to be able to help, as a mentor to high school students before they get out in the real world.”
