Indy Standard

Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) takes pride in its graduates and their diverse, inspiring journeys. The IPS Alumni Spotlight was created to celebrate former students and showcase their experiences, accomplishments, and personal interests. Brian Williams, a 1991 graduate of Arlington High School, recently shared his journey with IPS.

After high school, Williams worked in finance for 18 years before transitioning to education. He is currently an English teacher at Purdue Polytechnic High School (PPHS). Recently named the PPHS Broad Ripple Teacher of the Year, Williams has been recognized for his innovative teaching methods and commitment to student growth. His creative approaches not only engage students but also empower them to excel in a STEM-focused learning environment.

When asked about how IPS shaped his educational foundation and career aspirations, Williams said: "The teachers at IPS shaped and prepared me for college and life. Nearly 33 years after graduating, I’m still in touch with several of my high school teachers/mentors."

Reflecting on memorable moments or impactful teachers during his time at IPS, he mentioned: "Mr. Douglas, Dr. Greenwood, Mrs. Peggy Penn, Mr. Mathis, Mr. Urban and Mr. Lamb are some of the great educators that shaped me."

Williams credits his strong educational foundation at IPS for his success in college and the workplace: "If IPS had not given me a strong educational foundation it would have been difficult for me to excel in college and the workplace."

He identified reading comprehension, writing, and critical thinking as the most valuable skills gained at IPS: "Reading comprehension, writing and critical thinking were amongst the most valuable skills I learned while attending IPs schools."

Discussing challenges faced during his time at IPS, Williams highlighted overcoming stigmas associated with township schools' quality of education: "A challenge I faced during my years at IPS was the stigma that township schools were providing a higher quality of education. It wasn’t until my freshman year in college I understood how valuable the skills I learned at IPS were top notch."