As the K-12 Principal at Jefferson Central School for the past 4 years, William Clooney has worked for years to develop a broad base of knowledge and expertise in educational content. He is a devoted family man with a vision of never giving up, which helps him outshine in the education industry today. William was born in the United States, and he graduated from University of Albany. He decided to go to graduate school and got a Master’s degree in special education. Mr. Clooney started out as a teacher at a private school in Massachusetts. He taught for a few years, and then decided to continue his education by going back to school to get a master’s degree in Education and Administration from Canisius College.
Mr. Clooney has been a special education teacher for 14 years and helps lots of kids with learning disabilities. He is trained in The Leader in Me – 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, which helps him learn how to be organized and use his teacher training to promote effective learning. He served as an assistant principal for Hillcrest Educational Center in 2006. Prior to his current role at Jefferson Central School, Mr. Clooney worked as a CSE Director at St. Colman’s School. He helped his team to grow with a positive culture that helped students also to feel safer.
Before that, he had worked at Fort Plain Central School District for two years. He was awarded Teacher of the Year to strengthen students’ learning and contributed to the Managed Victim Awareness Program. His achievements don’t end here, but William Clooney has been honored with School Building Leader Professional Certification in 2020 and School Building Leader Initial Certification in 2016 for his contributions to improving schools through implementing and monitoring effective strategies. William Clooney is a passionate leader in the education space who ensures every student is given an equal opportunity for academic success. He’s been recognized for his work as both an administrator and a basketball coach.
How did you get started in the education industry?
I have always had a passion for helping young children with their learning, so I began my career as a teacher at a private school in Massachusetts. I found this to be the perfect way to live out my passion and satiate learners at the same time.
How long did it take for you to achieve your goal?
I’ve been in the education industry for the past 14 years and served as a k-12 Principal at Jefferson Central School for 4 years. I attended seminars and workshops on how to promote effective learning and provide equal opportunities to every learner.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
Yes, there were many times I doubted it would work. There are also many challenges that have come my way to tempt me to give up throughout the years. What kept me going was my passion for education and sheer determination – if you really want something, you’ll find a way, no matter how difficult the circumstances might be.
How did you get your first customer?
I got my customer through referrals, but more importantly I got him because of my performance. Anyone can do what I do, but how well you do the job determines the quality and customer base as people’s needs change.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
My own website is the best marketing strategy I use to generate new business, but I have used LinkedIn,too, many times successfully to market my services.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
Staying positive is the toughest decision I made. It’s also my favorite one because I was able to face false statements with courage, and I’ve learned a lot about the importance of direct and personal communication in this process.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
It’s likely my passion for education and sincerity towards my students that make me successful. But, the people I work with have a major role to play in my success. These people have been my lifetime teachers and helped me to learn valuable lessons about life and success.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
My most satisfying moment in my career came at the end of the year as I watched our graduates walk across the stage to receive their diplomas.As I talked about how accomplishment comes from hard work and learning, and not from any other external factors like gender or skin or age or ethnic background–I was proud to see them fill up with hope and pride, knowing that they had accomplished something remarkable.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
The future of my business looks bright, and we plan to stay on trend with our mission statement. I will continue to nurture the skills and talent of both students and teachers alike, as I believe they need a strong foundation in order for them to excel. One of the
most exciting things I’m currently working on is helping disabled students get access to high-quality education that they can take advantage of in a welcoming environment.
What business books have inspired you?
I really enjoy 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I find this book has a lot in it that helps provide me with the organizational and motivational skills to get things done. If you’re looking for more business books about leadership, I recommend The Leadership Challenge.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
The advice I’d give to my younger self would be that it doesn’t matter if you succeed or fail at something, but rather how many times you get back up. All the failures in my life seem like a badge of honor because every time I fall, I’ve found a way to get back up and win. That being said, when starting out in your career, don’t be discouraged by rejection because it’s only the beginning to everyone’s success story.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
Yes. I’m always willing to offer guidance with professional objectives in education, especially K-12 teachers and mentors working to engage students intellectually through rigorous academic discourse.
To contact me, wclooney33@gmail.com or visit my website https://sites.google.com/site/williamfclooney/home