Kimberly Jones

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT KIMBERLY JONES

I’m Kimberly S. Jones, and I believe in the transformative power of education to change lives and create a more equitable world. As the 2023 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year, I’ve had the honor of amplifying the voices of educators and students while advocating for equity and excellence across public education. For over 19 years, I’ve taught high school English and humanities at Chapel Hill High School. My passion lies in helping students connect literature, history, and culture to their own lives in meaningful ways. Through courses like World Literature and AP African American Studies, I aim to spark critical conversations that inspire students to think deeply, act boldly, and envision a better future. In addition to my classroom work, I serve as a Regional Site Director for The Olga Lengyel Institute (TOLI) for Holocaust and Human Rights Education and as an education consultant for PBS. These roles allow me to collaborate with educators nationwide to design lessons that honor diverse perspectives, challenge assumptions, and empower learners. I’m also proud to contribute to the broader field of education through my roles as an advisor to the North Carolina State Board of Education and as a member of various educational boards and commissions. These opportunities allow me to shape policy, mentor teachers, and advocate for initiatives that improve student outcomes and promote equity. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition for my work, including the NC Attorney General’s Dogwood Award for public service, acknowledgment by Governor Roy Cooper and the NC African American Heritage Commission, and the Chapel Hill Public School Foundation’s Sullivan Chair for Excellence in High School English Education. One of my proudest moments was delivering the 2024 commencement address for Wake Forest University’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences—an honor that brought my journey full circle as a double Demon Deacon. At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to empowering students and educators to create meaningful change. Whether it’s through dynamic lessons, thoughtful policy work, or professional development, I strive to make education a tool for transformation. When I’m not teaching or advocating, you can find me traveling with my family, recharging with friends, renovating my home with my husband, diving into a true crime podcast, or savoring a quiet moment with a great book. Let’s connect and work together to champion the life-changing potential of education!