PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. ā Clifton āClifā Lewis Jr. and Venita Williams have been named the November recipients of the Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) Inspiration in Education Award, recognizing their dedication and contributions to the district.
Lewis received the certified award, while Williams received the classified award.
Clifton āClifā Lewis Jr. ā Certified Honoree
With 18 years of experience in education, Clifton āClifā Lewis Jr. is a science educator, mentor and instructional leader at Mills University Studies High School, where he teaches Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, and Environmental Science.
Lewis emphasizes hands-on learning, scientific inquiry and meaningful relationships to make science engaging and accessible to students. Throughout his career, he has also taken on several leadership roles, including 10 years as Science Department Chairperson, service as Dean of Students, and membership on district and building leadership teams.
In addition to mentoring beginning educators, Lewis has contributed to curriculum development, professional learning and initiatives focused on positive school culture and student achievement.
A graduate of the Pine Bluff School District, Lewis holds three degrees from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and a postgraduate certificate in Building Administration from the University of Central Arkansas. He is also a licensed Pā12 Building Level Administrator, an Army National Guard and Army Reserve veteran, and an Eagle Scout.
For Lewis, the greatest measure of his work is not found in titles or awards, but in the students he inspires and the educators he helps develop. His goal is to empower young people to become confident thinkers, productive citizens and lifelong learners who positively impact their communities.
Venita Williams ā Classified Honoree
Venita D. Williams has dedicated 31Ā½ years to PCSSD, serving as an Accounts Payable Specialist and Payroll Specialist II.
Known among her coworkers as the āCentral Office Comedian,ā Williams brings humor and personality to the workplace while keeping things real. She is also a proud graduate of Wilbur D. Mills High School, Class of 1988.
Williams is actively involved in her community and church, where she serves as Financial Secretary, Lead Usher and a choir member. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, bowling and baking.
Her dedication to the district is also reflected in the support she provides to her colleagues. According to her nomination, Williams has recently taken on the responsibility of onboarding new bookkeepers while also helping train another employee in payroll.
Her willingness to share her knowledge and take on additional responsibilities demonstrates the experience, teamwork and commitment she brings to her work.