THOMASVILLE — A veteran educator is seeking reelection to the Thomasville City School Board. 

Dr. Hazel Jones, who represents District 1 for the Thomasville City Schools, plans to run again in the November election. 

“My desire to run for school board is an extension of my continued desire to serve this community,” she said. 

Jones has served two terms on the city school board. Through her terms, Jones chaired the city school’s school improvement committee on three separate occasions and served on the state-mandated Thomasville City strategic planning committee in 2014. 

“My running for the school board will allow me the opportunity to continue working and advocating for all children,” she said. 

Jones, who called herself a “life-long learner,” is a graduate of Thomasville High School. A product of the city school system, Jones said she has witnessed the “challenges that our children are facing as they prepare to graduate from Thomasville High School and compete for 21st century workforce jobs.” 

Two major projects came to fruition in the city schools — the launch of Footsteps2Brilliance and the first phase of renovations to Veterans Memorial Stadium. 

“I think that is an excellent opportunity for children to receive an early start in education,” Jones said of Footsteps2Brilliance, adding she plans to serve as an advocate for the early-literacy program. 

Jones also noted Footsteps2Brilliance is an “excellent opportunity,” for the community, teachers, students, and parents to work together for improvements in the learning process. 

Jones also expressed her thoughts on the stadium project. 

“As a school board member, I’m in favor of strong academic environment, however, I agreed with the long overdue renovations needed on the restrooms, concession stand, and the stadium,” she said. 

Jones, who worked as a “teacher, principal, mentor, parent and grandparent,” said she is excited about the new school year and the school district’s focus on early learning, literacy, and numeracy. The two-term board member also noted the school year’s focus is aimed at student academic achievement and growth through language arts and mathematics proficiency in grades 3-8. 

Jones also encourages open communication. 

“As school board District 1 representative, I believe it is a duty and responsibility of a school board to be responsible and receptive to parents, staff, students and the community as a whole, by encouraging open dialogue,” she said. “I must understand that to be an effective school board member, we must accept input from all groups and weigh all the facts before making decisions on issues, During my tenure as school board member, I am accessible and willing to communicate with all stakeholders in our community.” 

If not reelected, Jones plans to continue advocating for children, such as continuing work with Project Excel. 

“I will continue to motivate children to set goals for their lives,” she said. 

If reelected, Jones hopes to continue being part of the camaraderie among the city school board. 

“I am delightful to be one link in a team of six other board members who believe all learners will excel in an environment centered on rigor, relevance, and relationships,” Jones said, also noting the school district’s mission, vision, belief and goal to be achieved by the district’s strategic plan. 

Reporter Jordan Barela can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1826.