LOOKING AT the answers on the worksheet before her, Bridgette Jones leaned in to make eye contact with the young student she tutored. It wasn’t just the correct answers that brought them both joy; it was the newfound confidence ignited by Jones’ encouraging comments that fueled the student’s enthusiasm. This progress sparked what would become a lifelong career in education.
“The joy of helping students overcome challenges and achieve their goals made it clear that education was not just a career choice but my true calling,” Jones shared.
Her early tutoring experiences revealed something profound about learning: small moments of encouragement could transform a student’s entire trajectory — a truth she would carry through decades of educational leadership.
The path to her current position as principal of Unity School wasn’t linear. She earned psychology degrees, worked in special education, and held administrative positions across Tennessee’s educational landscape. With each role, her understanding of how students truly learn deepened.
“The students and staff I’ve worked with have profoundly shaped my vision,” Jones reflected. “Their needs, aspirations, and resilience remind me of the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and encouraged to grow. These experiences have instilled in me a commitment to cultivating a culture of continuous learning, compassion, and shared success.”
Collaboration, she believes, is the cornerstone of meaningful education. “Each role has offered me valuable insights into the needs of students, staff, and families,” she explained.
This philosophy of collaboration and continuous learning extends beyond her professional life. At home, Jones and her husband, Eric, the director of Fayetteville City Schools, share a passion for education. Together, they’ve built a life committed to supporting young minds, raising three children who witness firsthand the transformative power of education.
“My family, my faith, and my dedication to improving the community I grew up in by supporting the education of our
youth are some of the most important aspects of my life,” Jones said.
Her commitment to education runs deep, rooted in professional experience and a personal belief that learning is a lifelong journey of growth, connection, and mutual understanding.
While her career hasn’t been without challenges, Jones has learned to navigate complex educational landscapes thanks to influential mentors.
“The individuals who have had the greatest impact on my leadership style and vision are the teachers and mentors who embodied the principles of servant leadership. They demonstrated that effective leadership involves empowering others, listening with empathy, and leading by example,” she said.
As she looks ahead in her role at Unity School, Jones’ fundamental mission remains unchanged: to transform lives, one moment of encouragement at a time. Her goals are clear: foster a collaborative environment, support teachers in their professional growth, and ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.
“I am inspired by the dedication of our teachers, the enthusiasm of our students, and the strong partnerships we’ve established with parents and the community. This collective effort promotes not only academic excellence but also a nurturing environment where relationships flourish, and each individual is encouraged to reach their full potential.” GN
