JT Owens is the attendance dean at Lawrence North. As such, he builds connections with people and also helps people understand the importance of being present in school and gives out consequences when people do not take attendance seriously. 

Owens was recently named Classified Staff Member of The Year for LN. Assistant principal Ayanna Williams nominated Owens for the award. 

“JT is amazing at what he does. He builds relationships with students. In his relationships he knows how to balance holding students accountable while also being friendly with them, and he always has a smile on his face and is always willing to help,” she said.

Owens went to LN when he was in high school and graduated in 2006. 

“I enjoyed the experience,” he said. “I believe this is where God wanted me to be in hopes of giving students the same experience I had.” 

The best part of his job being here is spending time with the students and staff. 

“My best moments while being here is spending time with the students and staff. I also like that I GET to be here,” he said.

Owens also has some struggles with his job. 

“I get frustrated with the people who don’t understand the importance of being here,” he said.  Owens has had to juggle his responsibilities a lot this year since his wife has been sick and he has been helping her in addition to his work here.

“It’s been difficult trying to figure out ways to be there for my wife and be there all I can for my kids and the kids at school.”