Ruth-Ann Jones - Counselor
Bachelor of Science, Masters of Education
Certified, William Glasser Institute (Control Theory/Reality Therapy)
Certified, Nat'l Institute of Trauma & Loss in Children
State and National PTA Life Member
Work History:
Irving Independent School District
Eagle Mountain/Saginaw Independent School District
Grapevine Colleyville Independent School District
I grew up in Odessa, Texas, on a peach farm. Life in Odessa was centered around Friday night football games and lots of windy weather. When I left for college I was looking for greener pastures - trees, grass, and an occasional rain. College was Sam Houston State until I married and moved to Oregon where I got a job to support my husband while he finished school. We returned to Texas and Denton ( named North Texas State University, at the time...) Many years later, two children, two degrees and much experience, we are still sharing jobs, jokes, grandchildren and experiences.
What brought me to counseling was life experiences. For many years I have had a curiosity about why people do the things they do - especially in family situations. Early on I began to read about the "whys" of it all. In high school I took some elective courses in sociology and psychology. I was hooked on "people".
As I raised the family and taught school, additional situations brought me to the realization that counseling was a serious interest for me. I continued my education until I was qualified and certified to work with the people I enjoy the most - school children. I love counseling. It is my passion. I love working with people.
I believe that people cannot learn if they cannot think - and they cannot think clearly if they are hurting. Counseling can often help a child - or adult - make peace or find hope to get through the day until he can get "home" to talk with family. Counseling can chisel ice from a heart, bring a smile, be a listening ear. Everyone needs a friend and the counselor can be that friend, especially in a time of need.
Grapevine Middle School is an extraordinary place to work for a counselor because it brings every emotion to my office - joy, sorrow, anxiety, frustration, confidence, embarrassment, surprise, confusion, hope, caution, exhaustion, happiness, and more - it gives me so many extraordinary people to know.
Counseling enriches my life. It builds my character and my heart. Counseling at GMS adds to my life. As long as I get up in the morning and look forward to the day, work with a happy heart, and leave knowing that the day was well spent, I will continue to live a purposeful life.
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