(KLZA)-- The new Dean of the School of Education at Peru State College is Dr. John Jones.

Peru State, established in 1867, is Nebraska's first college and has always focused on teacher training.

Jones joins Peru State after 11 years at Truman State University, where he most recently served as Chair of the Department of Education. He has also taught special and elementary education in South Carolina and Texas and part-time at the College of Charleston. Jones holds a bachelor's from Georgetown University, a Master's from George Washington University, and a Ph.D. from Pennsylvania State University.

Dr. Jones brings excellent experience and a unique perspective to Peru State School of Education,” said Peru State College President Michael Evans. “The School has a lot going on - from its innovative TELL Lab to its hands-on approach to education, and Dr. Jones is the right person to take the School forward.”

Jones grew up in Medford, Massachusetts, before moving to Tokyo at 14, where he attended an international school. Initially a nursing student in college, he switched to Theology without plans to enter the ministry.

With parents in education, Jones naturally pursued a career in teaching. In grad school, he became interested in educational policy, working in special and elementary education before transitioning to higher education and educator training. His guiding philosophy is "work-to-live, not live-to-work." Jones is eager to expand the Peru State teacher education program, stating, "I want anyone even slightly interested in teaching to join this program."

Jones praised the faculty's proficiency and collaboration, stating, "I'm fortunate to have joined this team; my goal is to support them with the necessary tools and then let them excel."

Outside of work, Jones and his family, including two daughters, moved recently to Nebraska City. He likes to read and write and is into physical fitness.