Meet Jaylen Jones, 12th grade student at Olympian High School and NBC San Diego Inspirational Student of the Month!

Recently, Jaylen was honored by NBC News Reporter, Rory Devine in her classroom recently during an ambush-style recognition. Devine, her camera-man, district office staff, school officials and Jones’ parents all participated in the surprise recognition.

“Jaylen motivates and inspires me every single day,” said Jaylen’s father, Eric Jones. “I am constantly learning new things from her.”

As a leader on campus, Jaylen holds several roles in addition to being an outstanding student academically. She currently serves in her fourth year and as club president of the Gender and Sexuality Alliance Club, secretary and social media manager for the OLH Saves the Turtle Club, varsity manager for the Track and Field program, as well as Cross Country. Her friends say she’s authentic, passionate, and bold. She reminds others that, “Your presence and words matter. Finding your worth in that is where you can drive and succeed.”

As a Peer Mediator, Jones has participated in several anti-bullying campaigns which have led the school to be recognized by the Anti-Defamation League. She has also assisted in facilitating social/emotional development workshops for her younger schoolmates struggling with depression, anxiety and home-life issues.

“I just want to encourage others to have compassion for people that are different then you,” said Jaylen. “The more we accept people in every aspect of their being, the better our communities will be.”

Jaylen will be attending the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) in the fall! The Sweetwater District wishes her all the best and thanks for the lasting impact she’s made at Olympian High.