by Jordan Harris
August 12th 2025
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Photo of Hang Jones
Congratulations to Hang Jones, a Portland State University Master of Social Work (MSW) program alum, who was recently announced as the Gold Star Educator of the Year for the OnPoint Educator of the Year Awards, for her work as a School Social Worker at Marysville Elementary School in Portland.
As a bilingual Vietnamese immigrant who once dropped out of high school, Jones is uniquely positioned to understand the wide array of individual and communal needs of students. As a result, Jones has gone above and beyond to provide students and families with support outside of the classroom; delivering food, arranging medical appointments, providing language interpreters, fighting for equitable transportation, and leading Marysville’s Lunar New Year celebrations and Vietnamese affinity groups.
Jones's programs and guidance are also responsible for a drastic increase in student engagement, with Marysville Elementary School earning the highest increase in student attendance within the district over the past five years!
“Working in public schools as a school social worker has always been my passion. I love helping students and families connect, serving as a bridge to the resources and support they need. Advocating for underserved communities is at the heart of my work, and I find so much joy and gratitude in being able to make a difference every day.” — Hang Jones
We are beyond excited to announce that Hang Jones will be joining the PSU School of Social Work this upcoming school year as an Adjunct Faculty Member!
“Returning to the School of Social Work as adjunct faculty feels like coming home. This is where my journey began, and now I have the privilege to give back, supporting and inspiring the next generation of social workers just as the incredible mentors and faculty in the program once did for me.” — Hang Jones
Congratulations, Hang, you are truly a shining example of the positive impact that school social workers have on students and their communities!