Kori Jones, the Commission’s 2020-21 educator preparation student liaison. Photo courtesy MUSD.

Meet Kori Jones, the Commission’s 2020-21 educator preparation student liaison who shares her experience as an early career teacher of a Special Day Class at August Knodt Elementary School in Stockton.

Kori attended the University of the Pacific where she earned her bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and master’s degree in teaching with a concentration in special education. She holds a Special Education Mild to Moderate Support Needs Teaching Credential and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.

What do you enjoy about teaching?

The three things that I enjoy the most about teaching are the privilege to work with children to achieve success in learning, designing/creating materials and resources that my students can benefit from, and watching students mature as people and students.

What is a challenge you experience as a teacher?

The challenges I experience as a teacher is understanding the fine line between what I can control/change and what is out of my control or hands. I've experienced students who needed to be placed in another setting because my setting didn't have the supports that they needed and that was a challenge for me because I would feel like I failed or that I was not enough for that student. I worked so hard trying to reach the student and used so much energy. There is quick peace for me however when I experience challenges like these because I know whatever the outcome is, that I truly did my best.

What has surprised you most about being a teacher?

Something that surprised me the most about being a teacher is how much I enjoy each of my student's quirks. How much I laugh and really enjoy my kiddos, how I miss them and think about them all the time, and how my attitude can really shift the energy in the room.

What advice would you give those interested in pursuing a teaching credential?

If you are interested in pursuing a teaching credential, go for it. Do not allow for any test or assessment to stand in your way. Do not allow your wage or people who attach value to wage to stand in your way. When you become a teacher, remember that if you enjoy what you're teaching, so would your students. That you are one of the most important people in the room. Without you, the world will be chaos. Choose to have a good day and choose peace.

Share why you feel representation is important in schools.

Representation is important in schools because students need to see teachers from all backgrounds. Research has shown that exposure to teachers from different backgrounds can lead to more success. Learning must be from folks who speak different, look different, and think different. For students to respect, accept, and tolerate their peers, and others in society, there needs to be a balance with representation in authority such as teachers (folks who are usually respected) so students and staff can develop a sensitivity to others.

Why did you feel it was important to become a student liaison for the Commission and what did you learn from your experience?

I think it was important to become a student liaison for the Commission because I really needed to feel like the voice of my peers, and I were heard. I wanted to be a part of the solution and wanted to understand how exactly things were done. I learned that there are a lot of things that I do not know, but that there are armies of educators and allies fighting every day for our students to get the education they need and for our teachers to have the resources and supports they need to be successful. This experience gave me hope in the future of education and security in knowing that we are still pushing the needle to equity in education.

Updated April 09, 2024