Shenequia Jones – Warner Robins Middle

Shenequia Jones is the 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year for Warner Robins Middle School. 

Jones was born and raised in Perry and graduated from Perry High School in 1998. After high school graduation, she went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Valdosta State University, teaching certification from Fort Valley State University and her specialist degree from Georgia Southern University. Her first teaching job was at Warner Robins Middle School and she is in her 13th year.

Why teaching/What brought you into this field?

“I’ve always wanted to be a teacher and a basketball coach. I played growing up and was on the team at Perry High School. I first started out as a sports medicine major in college, but finally thought to myself one day, I could have the best of both worlds in becoming a teacher.”

Any inspiration from past teachers?

“Mrs. Smith from Perry High, she was my science teacher. We had so much fun in her class and she really made science interesting. Lab days were the best back then because we didn’t have the technology that the kids have today. But she inspired me to really become a science teacher.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

“Building relationships with the kids. They’re like my own children. I go to their games, concerts etc. It’s fun watching them grow as a person.”

What is the most

challenging part of teaching?

“School and life is not always fun and games, you’re going to have those tough moments. This is such a technology driven generation; they want everything fast and instant. So it’s hard sometimes to keep it exciting for the kids when we’re not using technology.”

Advice to students

“Try your best. We know, as teachers, that not all students are on the same level. We know that it may take others a little extra time to get the concept, and that is perfectly ok. The main thing is to keep pushing and don’t get discouraged. Also don’t compare your self to others. We all have strong suits.”

Advice to parents

“Show interest in your child’s school work and what they do outside of school. Talk to them, get involved, know what’s going on. And give their teachers support because when teachers and parents work together, the child has no choice, but to be successful.”