The first week on a new job can feel overwhelming but not for Sherman Jones, Westside Middle School’s new assistant principal.
Mr. Jones came into Westside with a goal and he’s committed to seeing it through.
“The first thing I wanted to do with my first week is to establish relationships and rapport with the students,” Jones said.
He’s committed to helping the students of Westside succeed in ways they never thought possible.
Mr. Jones has an understanding of what the students might be experiencing because he’s from the same community.
“I’m also a 1995 graduate of Frayser High School,” Jones explained. “So I’m no stranger to the community.”
Although Mr. Jones graduated nearly 27 years ago, he wants parents to know that his commitment to helping the community hasn’t dwindled.
“My idea is just to be seen and let them know, ‘hey, I am the new assistant principal here and if there’s anything I can do to help support their child on their education journey, please don’t hesitate to let me know,'” Jones said.
Mr. Jones strives to connect with students in meaningful ways while reminding them that they are in school for a specific purpose.
“I want them to know and understand that they’re only 11, 12, 13, 14 only once in their lives. So I do want them to enjoy their time but know that when they step inside Westside Middle School, this is an institution of learning,” Jones said. “It is also a place of business; so that their business comes first and their pleasure comes second. But at the same time, it’s possible to mix the two if they are doing the things that they should be doing in terms of trying to be educated in the classroom, listening, and being respectful to your teachers.”
About Sherman Jones:
Mr. Jones has a 20-year career in education. Jones is a Frayser High School graduate and began his career in education at the same school.
Afterward, for nearly 9 years, he was the athletic director and head boys basketball coach at Airways Middle School.
He gained more experience at Melrose and Southwind High.
As Jones was working in schools, the desire to be more of a leader grew. He enrolled in education leadership classes at the University of Mississippi.
Jones is grateful to Westside staff, parents, and students for allowing him the opportunity to grow and develop into the leader that he desires to become.