Greenfield-Central eighth grader Katie Jones proudly represented Scouting America’s positive impact on children and teens, thanks to partnerships with GC schools and the community.
Katie was among a small group of Indiana youth that met Gov. Mike Braun at the Statehouse April 27 at the signing of Senate Enrolled Act 200. The new law encourages patriotic organizations like Scouting America to have access to students in public and charter schools.
Greenfield-Central has been a long-time supporter of the organization, and Katie is a shining example of the leadership and community service skills the program can provide to students.
With her merit badge sash displaying 46 badges– more than twice the amount required to become an Eagle Scout– Katie took the role seriously and quickly took a liking to the governor, who was an Eagle Scout himself.
“It was a very exciting opportunity,” she said. “I wanted to be a representative for Scouts because scouting is a great opportunity. I love the outdoors and it’s fun and exciting as a unique way to learn.”
Superintendent Dr. Harold Olin says GC is proud of Katie and her accomplishments. Scouting has always been about education and service, he said, and the program is great at showing children and young adults about a variety of topics through its merit badge system that encourages students to learn hands-on projects and skills both indoors and out. There are always caring and knowledgeable adults available to support scouts in the process, and GC is happy to walk alongside students in their journey.
“Citizenhship is one of the pillars in the GC Profile of a Graduate,” Olin said. “Scouting certainly sets the stage for community engagement and civic responsibility, so it is an organization that has our full support.”
Katie joined the organization in 2018 as a Lion Cub Scout, and was a member of Hancock County’s first all-girl Cub Scout Den. This milestone coincided with the Boy Scouts of America’s historic decision to welcome female scouts, aligning the program with coed scouting worldwide and eventually leading to its rebranding as Scouting America, shared dad Kris Jones.
Scouting is a deeply-rooted tradition in the Jones family. Katie’s great-grandfather Wilburn was in the program 100 years ago, and they cherish a photograph from the mid-1920s proudly saluting in his scout uniform.
Katie’s grandfather John became so dedicated to the organization that his involvement continued through his military service, and he remained a registered Scout for 69 years.
Katie’s dad Kris has been a registered Scout for 42 years, and he continues to see immense value in the program far beyond the years he spent with it as a child.
“Like the scouts I lead, I still enjoy learning new things and I find it incredibly rewarding to give back to the community as a leader and teacher,” Kris said.
Katie is in the process of completing her Eagle Scout project, an extensive community service project that every scout must complete to achieve the highest level of Eagle. She is replacing the playground equipment at her home church, Eden United Methodist Church. She wants it to be a place of joy not only for the church congregation, but the entire community.
The Jones family is grateful to the Greenfield Central Junior High teachers and Principal Jeff Cleveland for their support, and for allowing her her day off of school April 27 to meet the governor.
“My teachers have been a really big help,” Katie said. “They’ve done letters of recommendation for my Eagle Scout project, and they’re very willing and excited about my Eagle Scout journey. They’re really supportive.”
Principal Cleveland said scouting helps students become more well-rounded; they can solve problems and see their impact on the community through the work that they do.
“It is important for Greenfield-Central schools to support students in community service projects like Scouting because by doing this, our kids give back to the community and grow a deeper respect for what we have in Hancock County,” Cleveland said. “It has been great to see this year so many students here at GCJHS be involved with outside activities and groups that help others in our community. Even if the help is in a small way, it can make a big difference for all and I am proud to help those moments happen in any way I can.”
Senate Enrolled Act 200 allows Scouting America and similar patriotic groups to host meetings, camps and activities on school grounds; and to partner with school staff on programs. The law is an example of what is already in place at Greenfield-Central, but it ensures other schools statewide are also supportive.
“Katie was selected to represent the program because of her exceptional accomplishments thus far as a Scout, and her ‘Scout Spirit,’” Kris said. “As a dedicated student and leader, she serves as a powerful example of the opportunities available to all youth through Scouting.”
The greater Greenfield community have long supported local scouts, Kris added, as is seen by countless Eagle Scout projects across Hancock County. From parks to churches to school grounds, the community recognizes the life skills and community service Scouts are receiving through the program.
“Greenfield-Central recognizes that students in Scouting are part of something larger than themselves,” he said. “The district sees these Scouts as dependable leaders whose future contributions to Greenfield will be ongoing. Moving forward, my hope is that the Crossroads of America Council will be able to share information about Scouting more effectively, building upon the strong foundation of support provided by the Greenfield school corporation.”
By Maribeth Vaughn
Katie Jones’ dad Kris, left, and grandfather John have been involved with scouting 42 and 69 years respectively.