Judith Williams teaches sixth through twelfth grade special education students at Morris Schott Middle School in Mattawa. The "entrepreneurial curriculum model" Mrs. Williams created is at the center of her educational approach. In this program, student-run businesses serve as the vehicle for the teaching of academic content and business-related skills. Students involved in the program manage Re-Run Recycling, a community-wide recycling business as well as an advertising business that produces and markets posters, signs and cards. The program, which relies on strong community alliances, provides students with a "highly motivating, practical and real-life learning experience." Since its inception, the program has brought about a dramatic change in student behavior and attitude. "My students now have a sense of ownership of school and community," says Mrs. Williams.
1968 Oklahoma University of Science and Arts, B.A.
