Mr. Rex Jones

Social studies teacher Rex Jones joined the ESA faculty in 2023, four years into his teaching career. Originally from Grand Lake, Louisiana, Mr. Jones teaches AP U.S. History, AP U.S. Government, and AP Comparative Politics. He’s also the sponsor and coach of ESA’s Speech and Debate team, a group that he revived after a twenty year absence. Here’s our Q&A with Mr. Jones:

The whole community at ESA is supportive. The faculty meetings are intellectually engaging, and professional development is intentional and useful. The students take care of each other, their facilities, and even the classrooms where they study.

It's so easy in a digital world to copy and paste. I always try to think of assignments and activities that ask the students to do more than copy and paste. They get to be creative and challenge themselves while learning to appreciate the challenge of uniqueness and individuality.

In civics, to better understand the criminal process and the legal system, we put Goldilocks on trial for criminal trespass and simple theft (of porridge). The students are the lawyers, witnesses, and juries, and they always impress me with their knowledge and wit.

I take night classes in American history at LSU. That professional study renews my passion for the subject. By the time my PhD is done, I'll have driven almost the circumference of the earth!

Perfecting the Pina Colada on a beach in the Caribbean

I want my son to get the best education Lafayette has to offer with the best people in Acadiana, so I wouldn't send him anywhere else.

Thanks, Mr. Jones!