By Matt Hoover
USD 475 Communications Coordinator
JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – In her two years in Geary County Schools USD 475, Jolene Dukes has definitely made her mark as a teacher in and out of the classroom. Dukes, who is a Special Education teacher at Sheridan Elementary, has been able to build amazing relationships during her short time in the district, while also creating a classroom and 21st Century after-school program that is fun and engaging. “Teaching is my passion. I take great joy in building relationships with both my students and colleagues, creating a classroom environment that is safe, fun, and engaging. There’s nothing better than seeing a student’s eyes light up when they accomplish something they once thought was impossible. I always remind my students that every day is a fresh start, and anything is possible,” said Dukes.
To fully understand Dukes story and why her drive and love for seeing her students shine is as passionate as it is you must go back to her childhood. Dukes grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, and graduated from Lincoln High School. While at LHS, she was involved in volleyball, choir and the drama club. At the young age of 16 though she was introduced to martial arts and fell in love with it. So much so that she continues to practice Taekwondo and Muay Thai to this day. She has even begun working it into her after school activities at Sheridan. “In addition to my role as a Special Education teacher, I also enjoy teaching Taekwondo as part of the 21st Century program each week. It’s rewarding to share my love for martial arts with students and help them build confidence, discipline and physical skills,” said Dukes, who proudly served in the United States Army for eight years.
Those same qualities of building confidence, discipline and working on a skillset have truly served her well in the classroom during her short tenure as she has been able to teach several Special Education students’ different areas and been able see their growth, daily.“One of my favorite moments as a teacher is witnessing the excitement in a student’s eyes when they master a new skill. Watching my students find joy in learning is what drives me every day,” said Dukes.
Through it all, Dukes, who is an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and loves to travel, has found a home in USD 475 after previously working as a paraeducator for Des Moines Public Schools and graduating from William Penn University in 2016. “I love being part of such a close-knit district in USD 475. The sense of community here makes teaching even more rewarding,” said Dukes.