Brian Williams Named Director of East Maine District 63 Total Learning Community Program

At its meeting on August 5, the East Maine School District 63 Board of Education approved the appointment of Brian Williams as Director of the District's Total Learning Community (TLC) Program.

TLC, District 63's award-winning, affordable afterschool program, serves more than 275 K-8 students, providing homework help and enrichment programs - from art and music to drama and sports. TLC also offers spring and summer vacation programs, a basketball league, open gym nights, and teen programs.

Williams comes to TLC from Evanston's Youth Organizations Umbrella (Y.O.U), which he joined in 2004 as a Youth Development Specialist. After moving up to become Assistant Program Director for several Y.O.U. youth initiatives, he spent a year and a half as 4-H Youth Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, returning to Y.O.U. in 2012 to serve as Program Director. Williams, who holds a BA in sociology and business from Northeastern Illinois University and an MA in nonprofit administration from North Park University, received the 2010 YMCA Award for Excellence in Youth Services.

District Superintendent Dr. Scott Clay noted, "TLC is unique, providing a key service to our students, their families, and the larger community. Because of its affordability, families who might otherwise be unable to access afterschool and summer care are able to place their children in high-quality programming on-site at our schools. Mr. Williams' extensive experience running youth programs will ensure that TLC continues its legacy of fine, child-centered service."

Williams added, "I've always been passionate about working with youth - it's something I've focused on throughout my career. District 63's TLC is an exciting next step for me: it's an incredible program, with an amazing history and a strong community reputation. I'm excited to jump in and build on TLC's track record of excellence."

TLC is offered at all seven schools in East Maine School District 63, which serves a diverse population of more than 3,600 students who live in portions of Des Plaines, Niles, Glenview, Park Ridge, and Morton Grove. More than 65 languages are spoken within the district; approximately 80 percent of the students come from homes in which a language other than English is spoken. District 63 is an inclusive district, offering a full range of services for academic, social, emotional, and physical growth - including cutting edge special education and ESL/bilingual programs. Visit www.emsd63.org to learn more.