Lois Harrison-Jones facts for kids
Lois Harrison-Jones is an important American school leader and educator. She was the superintendent (the top boss) of two major school systems: Richmond Public Schools and Boston Public Schools. She made history by being the first female superintendent in Richmond. She was also the first black female superintendent in both Virginia and Boston.
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Early Life and Education
Lois Harrison-Jones was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. She loved learning and went to several universities. She earned degrees from Virginia State College, Temple University, and Virginia Tech. These degrees helped her prepare for a career in education.
Career as a School Leader
Harrison-Jones started her career in 1954 as a sixth-grade teacher. She worked very hard and moved up through the ranks in the Richmond Public School system. Eventually, she became the assistant superintendent for elementary education. This meant she helped oversee all the elementary schools.
Leading Richmond Public Schools
In 1985, Lois Harrison-Jones was chosen to become the superintendent of schools in Richmond. This was a big deal! At that time, she was one of only 24 black women superintendents in the entire United States. She was also the first black female superintendent in Virginia and the first female superintendent ever in Richmond. She led the Richmond schools for a few years before moving on.
Working in Dallas and Boston
In 1988, she moved to the Dallas Independent School District to become the associate superintendent for education. This role also involved leading and managing schools.
On May 14, 1991, Harrison-Jones was named the superintendent of Boston Public Schools. During her time in Boston, she made many positive changes. For example, fewer students dropped out of school, and fewer students were suspended. She also helped create new programs, like the Center for Leadership Development, and expanded programs that helped students prepare for careers after school.
After Being a Superintendent
After leaving Boston, Lois Harrison-Jones continued her work in education. She became a professor at two well-known universities: Harvard University and Howard University. There, she shared her knowledge and experience with future educators.
