Savanna Williams, ED.S.
Began at Teachwell:
2025
Why did you choose this field?
I have always been involved in working with children. Whether I was nannying, coaching, or officiating, being around kids made me happy! Being involved with such an array of children was appealing and that's how I found the profession of school psychology. As a school psychologist we are able to work with such a large spectrum of students, so every day is different. I love the diversity of this career and look forward to problem-solving my way through it.
What did you think you were going to be when you grew up?
I was pretty set on becoming a professional soccer player! Although I did not make it that far, I was able to play collegiate soccer. It is there where I built some pretty amazing friendships and personal habits that gave me my skill set today.
What or who most inspires you?
I have so many women in my life that inspire me. Specifically, mothers! We do so much mentally and physically for so many people. Being a working mom should be acknowledged!
Why Teachwell?
For the past 10+ years I have worked with multiple districts that I have truly enjoyed. However, the pull my personal life is telling me to lean in on has recently gotten stronger. My time will be far more efficient working with Teachwell than it has been in the past. I will be able to effectively support so many more students and their schools, while also running my household better. I look forward to a far better balance than ever before!
What are you proudest of?
I am very proud of two things: Me and my family! It can be so hard to be comfortable with yourself, but I know who I am and I am proud of it. That has trickled into how my husband and I have raised our four children. Being different is good. Being weird is good. Being kind is the most important!
How do you hope to make a difference?
Spreading kindness, even with a smile or a high-five, is a small difference I strive to make every day. Teaching my own children how to be kind people is so important to me!
What lessons has your work life taught you?
You truly never know what people are going through unless you ask. Being open and willing to communicate will make such a strong foundation for any relationship. Asking a simple question, like, "How can I help you?" or prompting someone, like, "Tell me what you need from me" can shift any relationship from cordial to encouraging. This has shifted many student, staff, and parent relationships for me professionally.
What is your background? Experience, degrees, skills, etc.?
I attended the University of South Dakota where I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology while also be a full-time athlete. After graduating I accepted a position as a youth counselor at a mental health facility. I learned a lot about disadvantaged youth and the reality of how everyone grows up differently. After this I knew I wanted to work with an array of students, while also integrated into their school system. After earning my Ed.S. in School Psychology I started my career with an internship in Spearfish, SD, that I absolutely loved! I stayed there for an additional year, but once my husband and I started our family we made the decision to move closer to our families. I was lucky enough to get a job right away in Mitchell, SD where I was for the past 9 years. Now my kids are getting more involved with activities and clubs, so making the move to Teachwell was an easy decision. I have strong skills in evaluations, report writing, and communicating the strengths and needs of students to their school supporters and families. I am efficient and utilize my time wisely. More than anything, I try to make everyone's life just a little better with a welcoming demeanor!
People would be surprised to know that I . . .