Channing Jones, Senior
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

When Channing Jones combined her leadership skills with her love of language, she discovered what a difference she could make in people’s lives.

Since her freshman year, the 17-year-old daughter of Rodney Jones and Karla Dodd of Atlanta has worked as a volunteer with English for Successful Living (ESL), a nonprofit organization that uses volunteers to teach English to the Hispanic community and is housed on the Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School and Church’s campus

She began assisting ESL in a childcare position, supervising the children while their parents took English classes, and managing the front desk.

During her junior year she taught beginner English to the adults and now she’s on ESL’s board of directors.

Channing said being a teacher was a rewarding experience, one that made her feel she benefited just as much as the students.

“Being a teacher allowed me to break through some of the barriers that accompany learning a new language by making classes compelling and fun in a homelike, safe environment,” she said.

“As a board member, I hope to use creative marketing ideas to ensure the continued success of ESL. I established friendships with my students, and it is my personal connection with these wonderful people that has motivated me to raise funds for the organization and raise awareness through our work on the board.”

Not only does ESL keep her busy, but the school’s newspaper and National Honor Society do so, as well.

Channing has always loved writing, a talent she utilizes well as co-editor-in-chief of The Crimson & Gold newspaper. She also serves as president of the NHS and organizes fundraisers and community service drives through the school’s chapter.

So just how does she keep up with her full schedule?

“I have to compartmentalize,” she said. “If I just take it one step at a time, I can get through things.”

What’s Next:

Channing said she plans to major in the communications field, possibly at the University of Georgia, Wake Forest University or Tulane University.

After college, she hopes to work in advertising or public relations in New York City. Before she becomes a high school graduate, though, she plans to teach English again in the spring.