For Jason Moore, the path to becoming Benton Grade School’s new assistant principal wasn’t a straight line. It was filled with twists, turns, and a few leaps of faith. But as he settles into his role at the school, one thing is clear: Benton Grade School has gained a leader who brings passion, experience, and a deep sense of commitment to both education and the students he serves.

Jason’s connection to education goes back almost two decades, but it wasn’t always the plan. Growing up, Jason’s dreams were tied to sports, particularly basketball. “I wanted to be the next great college basketball coach,” Jason recalls, his love for the game clear in every word. His early inspirations came from coaches like Coach Reed and Coach Petersen, who both played pivotal roles in his development as an athlete and a leader. “I learned a lot from them,” Jason says. “But it wasn’t just about the game—it was about working with kids, being a positive influence, and giving back.”

After starting his career as a sixth-grade teacher in Norris City in 2000, Jason transitioned into teaching PE, where he spent seven years fostering a love for fitness and teamwork among his students. But his journey took an unexpected turn in 2009, when Jason answered a different kind of calling— one that led him out of education and into full-time ministry. “It was a leap of faith,” he says. “I became a youth pastor, thinking that’s where I was meant to be.”

For six years, Jason dedicated himself to serving his church community. But in 2015, life brought him back to education. “I wasn’t sure what to do next,” Jason admits. “But I still had my degree, and I felt like I could return to teaching.” And return he did, accepting a position at Opdyke-Belle Rive Grade School, where he resumed teaching PE and even took on the role of athletic director.

Throughout his career, Jason has always been about more than just academics or sports—it’s about the students. One student in particular stands out in his memory. “There was this kid, Wyatt Pilson, who came into my class in sixth grade—scrawny, shy, and unsure of himself,” Jason recalls. “By the time he left for high school, he had transformed into this confident, strong young man. His mom told me that all he did at home was my workouts. That’s when I realized that I was helping these kids become more than just athletes—I was helping them grow as people.”

Jason’s dedication to his students is one of the many reasons Benton Grade School was thrilled to welcome him to their team in 2023. “It was kind of a God thing,” Jason says with a smile. “Doors opened that I didn’t even know were there.” After returning from a mission trip and church camp with his son, Jason interviewed for the role—and as he puts it, “It was a home run out of the park.”

Since starting in July, Jason has embraced his responsibilities as assistant principal for grades five through eight, overseeing discipline and helping teachers with administrative tasks like managing substitutes. While discipline can be a tough part of the job, Jason approaches it with grace and empathy. “I always try to extend grace to the students,” he explains. “If it’s their first offense, I want them to know they made a mistake, but it’s not the end of the world. Tomorrow’s a new day.”

Jason’s approach to leadership is rooted in building relationships, both with students and with staff. “I try to make my rounds every day, checking in on the teachers and seeing if they need anything,” he says. “We have a great admin team here. We all support each other.” He works closely with Principal Ellen Gibbs and fellow administrator John Pulliam and Stacia Sloan to ensure that Benton Grade School runs smoothly and that both students and teachers have the support they need to thrive.

As Jason reflects on his new role, it’s clear that Benton is where he’s meant to be. “I love it here,” he says. “I wake up every morning excited to come to work. The community has been so welcoming, and the staff has been phenomenal.” And while Jason’s journey has taken him through different phases of life—from teacher to pastor and back again— his dedication to shaping young minds and hearts has remained constant.

With a deep-rooted love for education, sports, and his community, Jason Moore is a perfect fit for Benton Grade School. His journey may have had its twists and turns, but there’s no doubt that Jason is exactly where he belongs—helping Benton’s young Rangers grow, learn, and succeed.