NORFOLK — A special education teacher at the Berkley Campostella Early Childhood Education Center in Norfolk was surprised with a pep rally after being named News 3's newest Everyday Hero.
"One word, overwhelmed," said Corey Jones. "I am truly surprised and truly humbled."
Jones has been teaching for more than two decades. Principal Beverly Ellis said Jones' dedication to his students is remarkable.
"I am just so overjoyed because Mr. Jones is an outstanding educator who cares about the students with disabilities, and then he takes and embraces all the other students in the building," Ellis said.
Jones also received a $425 gift card from community partner Southern Bank. His response was immediate — he joked about sharing it with his class and colleagues for lunch.
It was Jones' teacher's assistant, Brenda Blanchard, who nominated him for the honor.
"He's very deserving," said Blanchard. "He gives to the parents all the time. If somebody needs something, Mr. Corey is there."
Blanchard also shared a story about Jones quietly stepping up for a family at the school after a fire at the family's home.
"A couple of years ago, one of the families had a fire, so he went out, bought waters, ain't said nothing to nobody, just went out and bought waters, pair, a couple of pair of shoes, and gave it to the family," Blanchard said.
For Jones, that kind of action comes naturally.
"I don't see that as going out of my way. I see that as helping somebody in need. That's what I've always been doing. It's nothing different for me," Jones said.
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