Hazel Grove Elementary School Surprises Dr. Jarius Jones with a Special Honor
The leadership team at Hazel Grove Elementary School invited Dr. Jarius Jones to attend their Black History Month program.
What they didn’t tell the Associate Superintendent of Human Resources at Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools was that he would be honored at the event.
On Wednesday, February 25, the program unfolded as planned inside the crowded Hazel Grove cafeteria. Students performed and staff members spoke.
But then, without warning, organizers pivoted to announce that Dr. Jones was being recognized as the first-ever recipient of the “Forever Hornet Award”.
The honor celebrates Dr. Jones’s unwavering commitment to education and lifelong dedication to the KCKPS community.
An alumnus of Hazel Grove and a proud product of KCKPS, Dr. Jones sat stunned as the announcement was made.
Only then did it begin to make sense why his wife, children, sibling, members of his Human Resources team, and colleagues were all seated nearby.
Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Jarius Jones
Throughout his career, Dr. Jones has been a beacon for education, leadership, and service.
From student to district leader, his journey reflects the very excellence Hazel Grove seeks to instill in every child who walks its halls.
"Honoring Dr. Jones was important because he exemplifies the excellence, leadership, and service that Hazel Grove strives to instill in all students," said Hazel Grove Principal John Williams.
"His contributions to the Kansas City metro area and the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools district demonstrate the powerful impact a Hazel Grove education can have.
Recognizing him as the first recipient of the “Forever a Hornet” Alumni Award highlighted the importance of giving back, uplifting others, and serving one’s community," Williams added.
Fighting back tears, Dr. Jones stepped to the podium not just to accept the award, but to pour back into the students sitting in front of him.
He reminded them that their dreams are valid, their voices matter, and their beginnings do not limit their futures.
Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Jarius Jones
“I hope that you take every moment, every day that you have on this earth, and every experience, and use it to be the very best that you can be,” said Dr. Jones.
After the Black History Month program, the school hosted a living wax museum, which is an interactive educational project that honored well-known African American leaders and innovators.
Included in the gallery, a young Dr. Jones portrayed by a student at Hazel Grove Elementary School.
The honor became a full-circle story with proof that greatness can rise from the very seats where young dreamers sit today.
As he took his seat, Dr. Jones showed gratitude to every person who made the event possible.
“Thank you to this entire staff. I am so humbled. You all, please don’t tell people that I cried.”
Congratulations to Dr. Jones.