Director, Redesign XQ
District of Columbia Public Schools
Dr. William L. Blake is a transformational K–12 educational leader with two decades of progressive leadership experience in large, complex urban school districts. A proud graduate of Morgan State University, Trinity University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (Ed.D., Educational Leadership), Dr. Blake has served in multiple critical roles including teacher, assistant principal, principal, and central office leader. His expertise spans across instructional redesign, social-emotional learning (SEL), and school transformation—most recently serving as Director of Redesign XQ at DC Public Schools, where he has led efforts to disrupt traditional models through Human-Centered Design and student-centered innovation.
Dr. Blake’s leadership is distinguished by his commitment to equity, student voice, and culturally relevant pedagogy. He has designed and implemented high-impact SEL frameworks, elevated student engagement scores, and improved school attendance metrics through bold strategies and experiential learning. A fellow of prestigious programs such as the AASA Urban Superintendents Academy and Cambiar Catalyst, Dr. Blake continues to shape the future of public education by coaching school leaders, integrating SEL with academic goals, and building systems that ensure all students feel loved, challenged, and prepared. Dr. William Blake is a devoted member of Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc.