Congratulations to Mr. Brian Jones the JCPS Certified Employee of the Month for April 2025!
Mr. Jones has been teaching for 28 years, and has been the band director at SSS for the last 22 years. In that time, he has built an incredible program, one that continues to grow and thrive. His incredible leadership and vision make a difference in the school, community, and most of all, the students.
He teaches them the importance of hard work, time management, commitment, and integrity. These lessons extend far beyond high school, and the students carry these traits with them for the rest of their lives. Passionate about his students, Jones is proud of the program he and his students have built over the last two decades.
Why did you choose the role of teaching?
I have always enjoyed being part of teams and watching them grow. As a band director, I get to see the growth of students from 9th - 12th grades, and seeing that progression is very rewarding.
My high school band director was a big influence in my decision to become a band director. I wanted to be a positive influence for students the way that he was for me.
What has this profession taught you?
The profession has taught me that teachers are so important to the future of our world. Supporting students and helping to prepare them to go into the world is such a big task and it genuinely takes a lot of commitment and dedication.
How do you create an environment for your students to feel successful as they learn?
Our band program is truly a family atmosphere, and we live by my favorite quote by Coach K, “The greatest pride of all comes from being a part of something you could never do alone.”
Being part of a band program means being part of something bigger than yourself. It takes a whole group of people from all different walks of life and brings them together for a common goal. Everyone is a vital member of the team and no one person alone can accomplish what the group can accomplish together.
How do you plan to build on your award winning strategies?
One of the great things about our band program is that all of our students take great pride and ownership in what we do. My student leaders help shape the future through their leadership and guidance of the younger members in our program. We are constantly modifying and adapting what we do to meet the needs of today, but we also have a rich history and tradition of excellence that is passed down from one year to the next.
As an educator, why is it important to build relationships with your students? How do you do that in your classroom?
In order for students to give you their best, they have to trust that you will always give them your best, and they need to have an environment where they feel safe and supported. When you take the time to get to know your students and meet them where they are, it makes a huge impact on their day and on the effort they give you in class.
I start every class period by inviting students to share good news - something positive that has happened since the last time we were together. This helps me get to know what my kids like to do outside of school, what things are important to them, etc. It also helps the other students in class get to know their classmates better, and it encourages students to find something positive in their day and gives them a chance to share.
As you continue as an educator, what are your future goals as it relates to education?
I plan to continue to show students that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to, regardless of any circumstance. It doesn't matter what they have or don’t have in life or where they come from. With hard work and perseverance they can overcome whatever life throws their way and follow their dreams.
What advice would you give to those thinking about a career in education?
Make sure this is something you are passionate about and will be committed to. Education is not an easy profession. Your passion and commitment is an investment in your students, and your impact will be felt long after your students have left your classroom.