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William Patterson – Founder & CEO

William Patterson is an educator, literacy specialist, and organizational leader with over two decades of experience supporting students with learning differences. Grounded in the belief that every learner deserves both dignity and access, William’s educational philosophy centers on equity, relationship-building, and evidence-based instruction. His practice integrates structured literacy approaches—most notably the Slingerland Method—with experiential learning, allowing students to apply their growing skills in meaningful, real-world contexts.

As the Founding CEO of Stillman Academy, William leads with a vision to reimagine literacy support through individualized instruction and immersive learning. His goals for the Academy include expanding partnerships with families, schools, and community organizations, and establishing Stillman as a trusted center for dyslexia remediation and instructional innovation. Building on his success as a private tutor and educator in San Francisco, William brings a reputation for integrity, results, and student-centered care to his leadership. He sees Stillman Academy as both a school that uplifts students, empowers families, and restores confidence in learning.

Before founding Stillman Academy, William taught in San Francisco, Miami, and Abu Dhabi, serving as a special education teacher, English department coordinator, and literacy advocate. He has received awards for excellence in teaching and public service, including SFUSD’s RAVE and the Community Advisory Committee’s AWE awards, and was recognized as Rookie Special Education Teacher of the Year in Miami-Dade. He holds a B.A. in Urban Studies from San Francisco State University and maintains certifications in the Slingerland approach. When not teaching or leading programs, William enjoys exploring the Bay Area’s natural landscapes, cooking with friends, and diving into historical biographies and audiobooks.