William Campbell, the principal of Olson Middle School in Bloomington, Minnesota, won $63,000 on the June 5, 2024, episode of Wheel of Fortune after solving the bonus round puzzle "A Gusty Day." Campbell, an educator with over 30 years of experience, used his national television appearance to highlight his school district and encourage his students to embrace risk-taking.
How William Campbell Prepared for the Bonus Round
Campbell secured his victory during the Season 43 bonus round, successfully identifying the phrase "A Gusty Day" to add $63,000 to his winnings. According to CBS News Minnesota, the principal had been a lifelong viewer of the program, often watching the show alongside his mother, who passed away in the fall of 2023. Campbell stated that the experience served as a tribute to her, noting that she would have been proud to see him on the iconic game show stage.
Why the Principal Hosted a School Watch Party
Following the episode’s broadcast, Campbell organized a watch party at Olson Middle School to turn his personal success into a teaching moment. He emphasized to his students that the process of auditioning and competing on a high-stakes show requires a willingness to fail.
"I think the most important lesson is being a risk-taker," Campbell told CBS News. "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." Beyond the life lesson, Campbell noted the positive publicity the event brought to the school, providing a rare moment of national spotlight for the institution and its students.
Future Plans for the Winnings
While Campbell enjoyed the competitive nature of the game, he confirmed that the $63,000 prize will be managed prudently. He plans to allocate the majority of the funds toward his future retirement. As an educator who has served as a teacher, superintendent, and now a principal, Campbell’s career spans three decades in the Minnesota public school system.
Viewing Information for Wheel of Fortune
- Current Season: Season 43 concluded in June 2024, with Season 44 scheduled to begin in September 2024.
- Streaming Availability: Episodes from the most recent season are available to stream on platforms like Hulu and Peacock, though availability is subject to licensing rotations.
- Reruns: The show typically broadcasts reruns during the summer months when original production is on hiatus.
Key Takeaways
- Winner: William Campbell, principal of Olson Middle School in Minnesota.
- Prize Amount: $63,000 won during the bonus round.
- Broadcast Date: June 5, 2024.
- Educational Focus: Campbell used the event to teach students about the value of taking risks.
- Financial Goal: The winnings are earmarked for retirement savings.