Desiree Jones, a Spanish teacher at Rome High School, and her daughter Natalia, a senior at the same school, reflected on their shared educational journey as Mother’s Day nears and Natalia’s graduation draws closer, according to a May 10 statement. The two have spent many years together in classrooms across the Rome City Schools system.
The story highlights how family connections can shape the educational experience for both students and teachers. As graduation approaches, it marks not only an academic milestone but also the end of daily interactions that have defined their relationship for years.
Desiree Jones said, “She actually has been my student often. I taught her in preK3, preK4, kindergarten and first grade. Then starting freshman year, she has either been Gary’s, my husband’s, student or my student all of her years except middle school.” For most of her schooling outside of two years at Rome Middle School—where neither parent taught—Natalia attended schools where one or both parents were present as educators.
Natalia described having her parents nearby during school as comforting: “It’s been really cool, in my opinion,” she said. “I’ve always liked having my parents as teachers… We’re always in the loop together.” She added that spending time in her mother’s classroom provided support throughout high school: “She always has snacks… It’s always good to have a little support system there instead of having to wait until after school because I like to talk so we talk a lot.”
Mrs. Jones noted that these everyday moments are what she will miss most once Natalia graduates: “I got teary-eyed yesterday looking at her desk and thinking she’s not going to be there.” As Natalia prepares to attend the University of Georgia with enough credits to be considered a third-year student by hours—a result of dual enrollment courses—both mother and daughter look forward with excitement despite some bittersweet feelings.
Rome City Schools reports a 95.7% graduation rate and offers one-to-one technology for K-12 students across multiple schools with Advanced Placement and career-technical programs; it is directed by a Board of Education overseeing administration while focusing on academics, arts, athletics and providing virtual learning options along with special education support according to the official website.
As they prepare for this new chapter—with plans for law school ahead—both say they would not trade their experiences together in Rome City Schools: “I feel like maybe some people would not like having their parents at school with them but I’ve always thought it was the coolest thing ever,” Natalia said. Mrs. Jones concluded: “I’ve loved every second of it—and I’m going to miss having her here.”
