Meet Stephanie Jones: Ayers Foundation College Access Counselor at Middleton High School
Although Stephanie Jones has only been with the Ayers Foundation since July 2025, she hit the ground running as a College Access Counselor and students at Middleton High School (MHS) have already benefited from her efforts. Bringing with her experience in social work and helping children and families rise above challenges, she is equipped to help students plan their futures and pursue their dreams.
“I have worked as a school social worker for the last four years at Haywood County Schools and I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families assisting them with eliminating barriers,” said Ms. Jones.
One of Ms. Jones’ first initiative was getting seniors to apply for the Tennessee Promise scholarship. Ms. Jones is pleased with the support she has received from Middleton High School Principal Jim Crocker and Vice-Principal Kelsey Kirk. She credits them both with helping “getting that ball rolling”.
“Mr. Crocker introduced me the first week of school and Mrs. Kirk allowed me to set up a table at the open house, since then, they have been encouraging students to see me to get the application completed and to pick up field trip forms,” said Ms. Jones.
Ms. Jones has already held Tennessee Promise and FAFSA meetings for students and their families. She has a lineup of campus tours, which TCAT Jackson and TCAT Whiteville, Austin Peay, Midde Tennessee State University, UT Martin, Jackson State Community College, and the University of Memphis, just to name a few.
Students at MHS are being encouraged similarly like at Bolivar Central High School seniors with a Dream Wall. Seeing their names on the MHS Dream Wall gives the seniors a visual of their future and has been a great motivator for them to work hard to achieve their goals.
Ms. Jones is also using the Ayers Foundation Trust at Middleton High School Facebook page to share pictures of the students who have completed the Tennessee Promise application as well as those who have already received acceptance letters from colleges and universities.
In the coming weeks and months Ms. Jones plans to hold events for students to provide financial aid guidance and college admissions support.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to work with these bright students and ensure they have access to their postsecondary goals,” said Ms. Jones.
To learn more about Ms. Benard and her role as a counselor, read Beyond the Title: What Ayers Foundation Counselors Really Do.
You may contact Ms. Jones at stephanie.jones@theayersfoundation.org.
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