“GRPS Champions” is a web series published every Monday celebrating the incredible work of GRPS team members.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – For Maura Jones, a third-grade teacher at Kent Hills Elementary School, teaching at GRPS is all about consistency, relationships, and diversity.
“I enjoy being a consistent person in my student’s lives,” Jones explained. “I strive to create a classroom environment where students know what to expect and can thrive in consistency.”
During her six years at GRPS, she has had the opportunity to teach multiple children from the same families, strengthening connections within the school community.
“I have also been able to keep in touch with many students as they get older. It is very rewarding to have students come back and visit and to see them achieving their goals,” she said. “It reminds me that the impact I have on my students' lives extends far beyond our year together.”
Jones first chose to work at GRPS because of its diverse and welcoming community.
“When I graduated, I knew I wanted to work in a district that valued diversity. The scholars we serve are why I chose to work in GRPS,” she explained. “I have found amazing peers working in this district and knew this was somewhere I wanted to be. Our scholars come to us with many diverse needs, and I have taken the time to learn how best I can support them.”
Each school year brings fresh challenges and opportunities for growth, and Jones embraces them with a commitment to flexibility and adaptability.
“With every new school year, I am learning new strategies and continuing my own education. I am willing to be flexible and adapt, and I think that positively impacts my students.”
Through her passion Jones is shaping the future for her scholars and helping to make Kent Hills Elementary a true community of support and encouragement.
