Proudly Lab: Alumni Highlight Series - Olivia Jones '20
Lab not only paved a path of academic success for Olivia Jones '20, but also inspired her career in empowering the next generation of students with learning differences. Read how Lab catalyzed the academic interests and leadership skills that shape her career in special education.
The Lab School has been a part of Olivia Jones’ life since she entered as a six-year-old student in the fall of 2007. Her fondest memories from those early years were the Academic Clubs, particularly Gods and Goddesses Club. The innovative approach resulted in deep learning, and a young Olivia impressed her grandfather with her knowledge of Greek mythology during a visit to Fountain of the Gods!
The arts integration that made learning engaging and accessible, Olivia’s consistent progress, and her parents’ appreciation for Lab’s mission were all factors in Olivia remaining at Lab for her middle school and upper school education. Two experiences during her time in high school set Olivia’s college and career paths. She shared, “My love for literature really began during my junior year of high school when we read The Great Gatsby. I remember Jennifer Sherman teaching us about the history and background of the novel, which made me even more interested in what we were reading.” Following graduation from Lab in 2020, Olivia began her studies at American University, earning a bachelor’s degree in literature with a concentration in creative writing.
During both her junior and senior years at Lab, Olivia served as Chapter Co-Leader for our Eye to Eye program. This role allowed her to introduce young students at Stoddert Elementary to the benefit of arts-based learning as they collaborated on projects designed to invite conversations about learning and learning differences. Faculty Advisor Marla Brazier praised Olivia’s creativity and artistic skills, as well as her naturally positive and gentle approach with the mentees.
Today, Olivia is pursuing her Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education at American University. In her studies, Olivia employs the skills and strategies she developed at Lab, even referencing the resources Lab provided. She appreciates being taught executive functioning skills at an early age, noting how critically important organization and time management skills have been as she balances school, assignments, work, and other responsibilities.
And, just as she did as an Eye to Eye Chapter Co-Leader, Olivia continues to ensure young children receive the type of transformative education she experienced. An AU Fellow in Lab’s Lower School, Olivia says, “Coming back to work at Lab has given me the opportunity to give back to a community that gave so much to me. As I pursue my master’s degree in special education, I have been able to see Lab from a different perspective. Not only as a former student, but now as an educator. I enjoy being able to support students who may have experiences similar to my own and hopefully have a positive impact on their educational journey.”
In her free time, Olivia enjoys reading and listening to audiobooks, being with her dogs who have been constant companions for the past 15 years, and spending time with family. Fall brings one of her favorite traditions – Thanksgiving in the Outer Banks with her mom’s side of the family, creating special memories.
