E

very person and every position matters. 

That’s a motto retiring Iberia Parish Schools Director of Personnel Jacklene Jones said she believes in and operates by in her day-to-day duties of recruiting and training employees in Iberia Parish’s education system. 

Jones has spent her entire 40-year career in the district operating in roles such as teacher, principal, and lead administrative team member. 

It’s a journey that is now coming to an end, as Jones is one of several key education leaders who are retiring from office effective June 30.  

“I plan on finding a beach somewhere as soon as possible,” Jones said.

The retiring administrator said she’s found joy in her work by doing what she loves naturally, training and mentoring teachers in one of the most enriching careers out there.

“I love working with new teachers,” Jones said. 

“I love talking to new teachers, the most rewarding part of the job is recruiting and bringing talent into our parish. I pride Iberia Parish for the support we give our new teachers,” she said.

Jones said the most challenging part of the job has been when there are circumstances that call for the investigation of an employee, and that person’s contract being terminated.

“I’m a teacher advocate so I always make sure we investigate thoroughly,” Jones said. “I make all my decisions by applying the same measure, is this the best decision for our students?”  

Jones credits her respect for everyone’s contribution as the reason she’s been effective as director of personnel for the parish since 2002. 

“You cannot be in a position like this and hold yourself higher than everyone. That’s crucial, everyone has a role,” Jones said.

“It does not matter whether you are the superintendent of the school system or a custodian, everyone is important because every position is needed to educate these children,” she said.

During her lengthy career, Jones received such accolades as Belle Place Middle School Teacher of the Year (1989-90), Iberia Parish Middle School Teacher of the Year (1989-90), Iberia Parish Elementary Principal of the Year (1999-00), and the 2001 Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award.

“I was one of six people from Louisiana chosen (for the Milken Award). I won $25,000 and they flew us to Los Angeles, where we were treated like rock stars,” Jones said.

After taking a little time to decompress, Jones plans to keep busy by working part time for I Teach Louisiana, a certification program for new teachers. The program will allow her to continue to help guide teachers in Iberia Parish as well as St. Mary, St. Martin, Vermilion and Lafayette.

She also plans to enjoy spending more time with her family. The single mom has a son, Derrick Jones, who is an attorney and chef. Derrick Jones and his wife, Abby, who is an English teacher, reside in Baton Rouge.

If you know someone in the Teche Area who would be an interesting weekend profile, please submit the name by calling 321-6766 or send an email to news@daily-iberian.com.