A media specialist often supports programs that affect the entire school, something Jacqueline Pender-Jones knows well. In her new role as district media specialist, Pender-Jones supports more than 100 media specialists in Guilford County Schools, and today she was named the district’s April 2015 Employee of the Month, sponsored by Sam’s Club.

Pender-Jones was a media specialist at Dudley High for many years before moving to the central office in August. Now she helps media specialists improve their skills, integrate new technology into their lesson plans and assist with districtwide initiatives such as GCS Reads 20. She also coordinated this year’s Battle of the Books competition, with a record 51 elementary teams competing.

Her years of experience working with students have helped her succeed in her new position, and the media specialists she works with appreciate her efforts. “Mrs. Pender-Jones has been a mentor to many district media specialists and a constant supporter,” says Simkins Elementary media specialist Binta Hill. “She exhibits excellence at all times and is a consummate professional that loves to help others. She is a role model for all media specialists in the district!”

As Employee of the Month, Pender-Jones will receive a $50 gift card from Sam’s Club, which has given nearly $6,000 to outstanding GCS employees since 2005. During the month of April, her photo will hang at the district’s central offices and at the Sam’s Club on Wendover Avenue.