Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary

05/24/2026

We have some rockstar teachers worth celebrating today!

These teachers had 65% or more of their students score at benchmark or above on the End-of-Year DIBELS assessment — a reflection of their commitment to helping students become strong readers.

Their classrooms are proof that intentional instruction and encouragement truly make a difference. We are proud of the impact they are making every day for students across Jackson Parish! ⭐️🎉

05/24/2026

🌟 Who We Are Wednesday 🌟

Meet Tina Marie Leonard, a 1st Grade Teacher at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School with 10 years in education, including 6 years serving Jackson Parish Schools.

For Tina, teaching is all about connection. She loves building lasting relationships with her students and their families while helping create a love of learning that continues long after first grade. Whether it’s a challenging concept finally clicking or watching a student’s confidence grow, those “lightbulb moments” are what make teaching so rewarding for her.

When reflecting on memorable moments in her career, Tina says it’s often the little things that mean the most—the hugs, the “I love yous,” Fun Fridays, and hearing from former students years later about how much they loved being in her class. Watching students grow and believe in themselves is the greatest reward she could ask for.

Tina credits her second-grade teacher, Mrs. Laura Derr, and fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Kathy Guin, as major influences in her life. They taught her that teaching starts with the heart and that when students feel loved and supported, learning naturally follows.

If she weren’t in education, Tina would likely be pursuing opportunities in real estate or developing new business ventures.
Outside of school, she enjoys traveling, relaxing, and spending quality time with her family.

👏 Join us in celebrating Tina Marie Leonard!

05/22/2026

Have a Great and Safe Summer Break, Tiger Families!

05/20/2026

05/08/2026

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make Teacher Appreciation Week special for our teachers and staff. Your kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness did not go unnoticed.

A special thank you goes to:
Cody Cheatwood, Family Pharmacy, J-HES P.T.O., Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office - Brent Barnett, Jason Robinson, Jesse McGee, Megan Rowe, Nadine McCardie, Rachel Shively, Town of Jonesboro/Public Works, & WestRock.

We are also grateful for the parents, guardians, students, and community members who showed appreciation in so many ways throughout the week. Our teachers give so much each day, and it means a lot to see our school community come together to celebrate them. Thank you again for helping make Teacher Appreciation Week such a wonderful one!

05/02/2026

Today, we celebrate the incredible leaders of Jackson Parish Schools for National Principals Day! 🌟

Behind every successful school is a principal working tirelessly to support students, empower teachers, and strengthen the community.

Thank you for the lasting impact you make each day! We appreciate you!

04/29/2026

We are so thankful for you!

🌟 Who We Are Wednesday 🌟

Meet Lisa Hicks, a lively Kindergarten Teacher with 19 years in education, all spent serving students in Jackson Parish Schools.

Lisa brings joy and energy into her classroom each day, creating a learning environment where students feel comfortable and excited to come to school. Her ability to connect with young learners and make each day meaningful leaves a lasting impact during their very first school experiences.

One of the most memorable accomplishments in her career was being awarded the Horace Mann–Lincoln Fellowship, which gave her the opportunity to travel to Illinois and study the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln—an experience that enriched both her teaching and personal growth.

Lisa credits Dr. Kathryn Newman from GSU as an educator who made a lasting impact on her life.

If she weren’t in education, Lisa would love to run a soup kitchen—continuing her passion for helping others.
Outside of school, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places.

👏 Join us in celebrating Lisa Hicks and the positive impact she has made on generations of students in Jackson Parish Schools!