Monica Jones graduated from Thomas University with an Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership and currently works as a fourth-grade teacher for an elementary school in Georgia. An accomplished educator of nearly two decades, we asked Monica to tell us about her experience at Thomas University.
Why did you want to work in education? What inspired you?
I wanted to work in education because I have a genuine passion for loving and nurturing children into lifelong citizens. What inspired me was my lineage of educators in my family. They always talked to me about the importance of education and why it’s important to make an impact.
Why did you choose Thomas University for your Ed.S. degree in teacher leadership?
I chose Thomas University because it was affordable and because of the hybrid module. It offered me flexibility as well.
What skills did you gain or sharpen through your program at Thomas University and how do you them today?
I gained more confidence in myself as a teacher leader. I gained more insight on the benefits of mentoring and coaching. The skill that I was able to sharpen was the ability to implement more leadership roles for other teachers in my building. I was able to empower teachers to break out of isolation, and I sharpened a professional network of teachers to promote a vision of educational excellence.
How has your education specialist degree impacted you in terms of your current position or a position you’d like to attain in the future?
My education specialist degree has impacted me in terms of my current position because I have many more leadership opportunities such as lead mentor of our new teacher induction program and also realigning how to teach reading. A position I would like to attain in the future would be a specialist in training new teachers, as well as critical trends in curriculum and instruction.
What was a challenge you faced during your teacher leadership program, and who or what helped you overcome it?
A challenge that I faced during my teacher leadership program was the GACE tasks and writing them efficiently. Dr. Gale Neal helped me with my thoughts and how to streamline the process. She gave me advice such as “Don’t overthink it.” Every time I sat down to complete this tedious task, I always heard her voice.
What was the biggest takeaway from your teacher leadership program?
My biggest takeaway from the teacher leadership program was that it’s important to build your leadership skills. I also learned that deepening your understanding of education helps to sharpen your skills and influence change.
What would you tell (or what advice would you give) prospective students considering the Ed.S. teacher leadership program at Thomas University?
I would tell prospective students that are considering the Ed.S. teacher leadership program to go for it, defy the urge of quitting, and to not be fearful. I would tell them that this program will build your leadership skills and will help you be effective in communicating and building relationships.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I would like to share that the program empowered, enlightened, and engaged me to embrace leadership.