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Life & Work with Keith Jones

Today we’d like to introduce you to Keith Jones

Hi Keith , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
This marks my 18th year in education and my 10th year as a school leader. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse school districts, engaging with both varied staff and student populations. My time in corporate America prior to committing fully to education has provided me with a unique and valuable perspective as an educator. I’ve also coached basketball, taught Journalism and English, and led numerous initiatives designed to support both staff and students.

These experiences, both in and outside the classroom, have significantly shaped my leadership style as I now lead the most diverse high school in Missouri. My focus remains on ensuring our students have access to opportunities and enrichment, empowering them to achieve their dreams.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Leadership can be a challenge in and of itself. My journey has been about perseverance and leading in my truth. I have discovered not only is it important for me to walk and live in my truth as a leader, when I do it helps all people around me to do the same. The society has evolved and gotten better about accepting leaders of color in education, however there are still moments when how you show up can cause others to be uncomfortable.

I have landed in the perfect spot in the North Kansas City School district where the commitment to kids, staff and education is at an all time high. The most impressive thing about my job is that I work for a district that allows their employees to celebrate what is important to them and others. I am fortunate that I can show up and worry about how to impact kids and not worry about the differences in culture that make up my learning environment.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in creating a safe and supportive environment where both staff and students can learn, grow, and reach their full potential. As a school leader, I am committed to the holistic development of each child, ensuring that every student who walks through our doors has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

What sets me apart is my creativity and innovative approach to education. I’m passionate about reimagining what learning can look like—making it relevant, engaging, and meaningful for all students. I take great pride in my responsibility to lead with care, ensuring that both staff and students thrive within our school community.

What are your plans for the future?
I have a deep passion for writing, and I plan to continue sharing my journey and experiences through this medium. I’m looking forward to releasing my third book, where I’ll share my leadership experiences and offer guidance to those aspiring to lead. My vision includes traveling, coaching leaders across the country, and learning from the ways other states and even countries are reimagining education. I’m committed to making a lasting impact on both educators and students as I move forward.

I’ve been fortunate to serve on committees dedicated to supporting Black male educators, and I aspire to play a greater role in developing and retaining educators of color, particularly male educators. I see myself as a connector, with a gift for bringing diverse groups of people together to inspire creativity and make extraordinary things happen.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Images provided by Trey Swagger fro Swagger Productions.

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