Heather Jones, Bisk Foundation Scholarship Winner, Special Fall 2011, Part A Session
The University of Scranton, in partnership with Bisk Education, Inc., proudly recognizes Heather Jones – a 4th grade teacher at Scranton School District in Scranton, Pennsylvania – as winner of the Bisk Foundation Scholarship for the Special Fall 2011, Part A session. The scholarship supports the professional development of outstanding teachers who are making a difference in the lives of their students.
Jones is currently enrolled in the Master of Science in Educational Administration program and is regarded by her colleagues as an outstanding educator who demonstrates a keen desire to make a difference in her students’ lives. Her exemplary performance has earned her high praise from Mr. Morris Arrington, Deputy Superintendent of her former school district in Hampton County, South Carolina.
“Ms. Jones has established a wonderful, productive relationship with our student population, our parents, and the community,” Mr. Arrington states. “She supports our students during school and after school. Furthermore, she brings her classroom alive by exposing students to current event topics.”
Jones will continue making a difference in children’s lives by pursuing her dream of becoming an educational administrator. “I have taught at schools that were complete opposites in many ways. Comparing the differences between these schools has fostered within me a deep appreciation for the importance of educational administration,” she says.
Her awareness of how critical it is for low-income schools to have effective leadership grew during her time teaching in a poverty-stricken town in South Carolina. Students and their families were already at a disadvantage due to insufficient school funding.
“I have always been interested in educational administration,” Jones shares, “and teaching in South Carolina encouraged me to pursue such a career for the benefit of students in low-income schools. I someday hope to hold an administrative position at a similar school, where I can lead the staff for the benefit of the students.”
Seeing the results of the socioeconomic achievement gap firsthand strengthened Jones’ resolve to pursue her personal goal of becoming an elementary or secondary school principal in a low-income school district. Her classroom successes are proof that she understands the need for schools to take care of their children.
Jones recalls the steps she took to make a difference in the lives of her students. “I worked endlessly before and after school and on weekends to develop strategies to meet the needs of my learners. I created games, incorporated technology, researched the implementation of thinking maps and comprehension strategies, planned hands-on activities to appeal to their learning styles, and planned numerous Family Math and Literacy nights.”
She collaborated with her coworkers to obtain funding to send food home with their students on the weekends. She planned pep rallies, holiday events, and fundraisers to help pay for field trips.
“I organized a community coat drive to ensure students had proper coats for the winter,” Jones shares, adding that, “ I brought the students treats on Friday, regardless of behavior, so that they knew I cared about each of them. By fulfilling their basic needs to feel safety and affection, I was able to move on to making a difference academically.”
Jones’ dedication to her students truly encompasses both their personal and academic needs. Her former supervisor, Morris Arrington, lauds her administrative aspirations, stating, “I rarely write letters of recommendations for teachers, but in this case I feel compelled. Heather Jones is a compassionate, dedicated teacher who wants all of her students to excel.”
Together with The University of Scranton, Bisk Education is proud to salute Heather Jones – a true everyday hero who is making a difference through the gift of education!
