Montgomery County Public Schools celebrated the remarkable achievements of third-grade teacher Dion Jones during the Maryland State Board of Education meeting on April 25, 2023. Mr. Jones, a recipient of the prestigious Milken Educator Award for the 2022-2023 school year, was recognized for his exceptional commitment to both academic excellence and social-emotional learning at Fairland Elementary School.

Mr. Jones has made a significant impact on his students, tailoring lessons to their interests and fostering an environment where they can express themselves. His innovative approach includes starting each day with mindful minutes, allowing students to share their thoughts before diving into their studies. This focus on personal engagement has led to impressive academic results, with his students achieving 79.7% of the district's projected growth in reading and 84.4% in math during the 2021-2022 school year.

During the meeting, Principal Lakeisha Lashley praised Mr. Jones for his ability to build meaningful relationships with students and families, emphasizing that these connections are vital for fostering a love of learning. She highlighted his leadership role in the school and his dedication to enhancing the educational experience for all students.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Jones expressed gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged the support of his colleagues, family, and students. He emphasized the importance of perseverance and commitment in education, encouraging his students to believe in their potential and strive for success.

The recognition of Mr. Jones serves as a reminder of the critical role educators play in shaping the future of students and the community. As he continues to inspire and lead, the Maryland State Board of Education looks forward to seeing the positive impact of his work ripple throughout the state.