Published Dec. 16, 2020
By Asja Jordan
Office of Marketing and Communications
University of Louisiana Monroe alumnus Sheldon Jones, superintendent of the Richland
Parish School District, has received the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents
highest honor, being named the 2021 Louisiana Superintendent of the Year. The award
was announced at the association's fall conference in November in Baton Rouge.
PHOTO: Sheldon Jones, superintendent of the Richland Parish School District, was named 2021
Louisiana Superintendent of the Year by the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents.
Jones said the education he received at the University of Louisiana Monroe equipped
him to be a successful educator for more than 24 years.
Sid Gaulee/ULM Photo Services
Jones received his Master of Education from ULM and spoke highly of its impact on
his career.
"ULM equipped me with the pedagogy as well as the clinical and field experiences needed
to be a successful educator," said Jones.
Jones said he actively lived the quote, "To lead, one must first learn to follow,"
during his time at ULM. He attributes his success in leadership to his professors,
mentors, and peers.
"Dr. Otis K. LoVette served as my mentor and heavily influenced my leadership style.
I also developed a professional network with classmates who now serve in a variety
of leadership roles," he said.
Jones is serving his 10th year as superintendent in Richland Parish. He has been an
educator for more than 24 years. His passion for education and persistence in his
field has helped fuel his success in this position.
"ULM equipped me with the pedagogy as well as the clinical and field experiences needed
to be a successful educator."
Supt. Sheldon Jones
Richland Parish School District
2021 La. Superintendent of the Year
"I've been a superintendent longer than any position I've held as a public-school
educator. Few educators can say that. While experience is not the main or only factor
for success, it simply cannot be replaced," he said.
As a superintendent, Jones' job has its own unique sets of successes and challenges,
as the position oversees the school system's day-to-day operations.
"I am humbled by the experience and most excited for those who have an opportunity
to share in the honor," he said. "I am committed to using this award as a platform
to promote public education in Richland Parish and Northeast Louisiana. Our children
are our most valuable resource."
He believes and lives by the power of advocacy, opportunity, and thoughtful leadership.
"As educators, we must be advocates for our students and a voice for the voiceless.
Our children have one opportunity to receive a quality education. They are counting
on us to make the best decisions for them," Jones said.
In October, Jones was named 2021 Superintendent of the Year for Region VIII, which
has 16 school districts in Northeast Louisiana. Jones was chosen for the state honor
from fellow regional finalists from DeSoto, Evangeline, Sabine, West Baton Rouge,
and Orleans parishes.
Each year, LASS acknowledges outstanding performance and achievement by superintendents
in various regions across Louisiana.
Jones goes on to the 2021 National Superintendent of the Year sponsored by the American
Association of School Administrators, AIG Retirement Services, and First Student.
AASA will recognize state and national winners in February.
