Jones Elementary School proudly announces Hadassah Cooper as the Teacher of the Year for the 2023-2024 academic year. Cooper, a seasoned educator with a passion for lifelong learning and student success, has been recognized for her exceptional dedication and contributions to the school community.
Cooper's journey as an educator began over five years ago when she joined Jones Elementary as a music teacher after earning her Bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of Mississippi in 2018. Since then, she has not only orchestrated memorable musical programs but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the school's Specials schedule, which continues to benefit the school community to this day.
In addition to her role as a music educator, Cooper's organizational skills and leadership abilities shone through as she spearheaded various initiatives within the school, including serving as the program director for the Mentoring Alliance after-school program and contributing to district-wide efforts in the Visual and Performing Arts department. Her commitment to student growth and talent development extended beyond the classroom as she served as a UIL coach and judge for Music Memory competitions.
Cooper's dedication to community engagement is evident through her involvement with organizations such as the Tyler Area Alliance of Black School Educators, where she works towards meeting the needs of African American students in both academic and non-academic areas of development. On campus, she has been an integral part of initiatives aimed at improving campus culture, including serving on the social media team and contributing to the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program.
Driven by her passion for exploration and growth, Cooper made the bold decision to transition to kindergarten teaching, showcasing her versatility and dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of her students. Her tireless efforts and commitment to excellence make her a deserving recipient of the Teacher of the Year award.
Reflecting on her philosophy as an educator, Cooper stated, "My philosophy revolves around the idea of being a forever learner. I believe that education is not confined to a specific time frame but is a lifelong journey of exploration, discovery, and continuous improvement. I am living proof of this philosophy."
Cooper's dedication to her students and her passion for education make her an exemplary representative of Jones Elementary School. As she continues her journey as an educator, her impact on the lives of her students and the school community is sure to endure for years to come.