MADISON – “First things first, I was speechless. Words couldn’t express how I felt, and only tears were flowing,” David Jones said.

The faculty and support staff at Heritage Elementary School selected Jones as 2020 “Staff Member of the Year.”

“I was in the running with some great coworkers that deserved it, also,” Jones said. “Being a CNP, it’s a dream.” As a CNP, Jones works with the Child Nutrition Program in the cafeteria at Heritage.

In the past, Jones has worked and managed many jobs. He even owned his own restaurant, Just Divine Catering, which is now his catering business on the side.

“I did eight years in the U.S. Navy as Mess Specialist, 3rd Class, stationed four years in Pensacola, Fla. on board the USS LEXINGTON-16 aircraft carrier,” Jones Said. He also served two years in Rota, Spain as a Card Clerk for managing the barracks, and he worked his last two years in the U.S. Reserves.

“When it comes to volunteering and committees, I’m always looking to help anyway I can,” Jones said. “I think life is about serving others. You have to get involved to make a difference — if you want others to help you.”

In dealing with older students, Jones sees “our teenagers as our future. If we teach well and let them lead the way, they become our leaders of tomorrow. Madison City Schools has some of the brightest students of today.”

“All of the students impress me. They have no clue of life but they’re willing to learn. They ask a lot of questions (and some can be very challenging). I try to answer most, but I really try to direct them to their school counselor,” he said.

Currently, Jones is a bachelor. “I’m living the single life … but my eyes are open!” he said.

Away from work, Jones thoroughly enjoys shopping in local thrift stores, fishing on the lakes, bowling, baking cakes and cooking special meals for people to enjoy. “Mostly, I love helping others,” he said.