Cheri Jones’ role as the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) coordinator for Ortega Middle School is defined as “implementing, monitoring, and sustaining a data-driven, tiered framework for academic, behavioral, and social-emotional interventions.”
She makes it more simple by saying her job is to connect with students and give them the support they need and monitor that support with data.
“I meet with kids of all different capacities and needs. I spend a lot of time with attendance and I try to put things in place before it becomes concerning,” she says.
Adams State School of Education recognized her as one of the San Luis Valley’s very best MTSS coordinators this week by presenting her with its Educator Highlight Award during a ceremony at Ortega Middle School.
The Educator Highlight Award recognizes top educators for all the Valley’s school districts. Adams State takes nominations on a rolling basis from anyone wishing to recognize a teacher, or school administrator, an MTSS coordinator, or really anyone who works within the schools of a community. The nomination form is here.
“As an MTSS coordinator my role is to support kids and families. That’s what I feel like I do on a daily basis, whether it means supporting them in the classrooms, academically, socially, behaviorally, holding them accountable,” Jones said.
Curtis Garcia, director of the Adams State School of Education, along with faculty and staff from the school made the presentation in a ceremony held in the office of Ortega Middle School Principal Nate Gonzales.
“The data you collect, the kids you connect with, it’s amazing,” Gonzales said. “We have a trusted adult survey, Jones is always up there at the top. We couldn’t function without you. We appreciate you.”
Asked what it means to her to receive the Adams State Educator Highlight Award, she said, “I think it’s pretty cool. It’s quite an honor. I surround myself with educators…”
Her voice trailed off, filled with emotion. The Ortega Middle School MTSS coordinator was overcome with joy by a moment in which her own work was recognized.