For an educator in Elk Park, Minnesota, winning $63,00 on the final episode of Season 43 of Wheel of Fortune meant more than just taking home the money. He made his win into a lesson as he held a watch party at his school.
William Campbell, principal of Olson Middle School, won the money after quickly solving “A Gusty Day” during the bonus round on June 5. Before becoming a principal, Campbell was also a teacher and superintendent and has been in education for over 30 years.
Campbell played against Julia Hoover, from Hobart, Indiana, and Emily Young, from Holland, Michigan. The game show contestant revealed that he also loves to dance and loves teaching his students to dance, but that is not the only thing he taught them recently.
A few days after his episode aired, Olson Middle School gathered together for a watch party. For the principal, that moment meant more than the money, he told CBS News in Minnesota.
“Eight to 10 million people heard Olson Middle School, home of the Panthers. Typically, when we report on schools, it’s some of the unfortunate things that happen. So for me, as the principal papa, I am excited that our school gets some positive press,” Campbell told the outlet. He wanted this to be a lesson for his students.
“I think the most important lesson is being a risk-taker. Being on Wheel of Fortune is a risk. Auditioning is a risk. In life, you’ve got to take risks and take chances because you will miss every shot you don’t take.”
He shared that most of his money will go towards his eventual retirement. Campbell started watching Wheel of Fortune at a young age and loved watching it with his mother, a lifelong fan, who died last fall.
“She would have been proud. She loves that show, and I’m sure she would have been excited to see her boy on TV,” he told CBS News.
If you missed his episode, you can stream it on Hulu and Peacock for a few more days. Season 44 will begin sometime in September. Reruns will air throughout the summer.
Wheel of Fortune, stream on Hulu and Peacock, Season 44, September 2026