Ronald “Ron” Jones began his journey in music education at age fifteen, teaching guitar lessons after school. A graduate of Pasco High School (1968), he went on to attend Eastern Washington University, earning his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education in 1975. That same year, at just twenty-five years old, he accepted the position of Orchestra Director at Port Angeles High School, beginning a career that would span more than four decades.

When Jones first arrived in Port Angeles, the orchestra program was struggling, with only thirteen students enrolled. Through his dedication and student-centered approach, the program quickly grew—doubling, then tripling in size. His philosophy has always been guided by a simple principle: every decision should be made with the question, “What is best for the students?”

Over the course of his career, Jones earned numerous accolades, including Washington Music Educator of the Year (2002), induction into the Washington Music Educators Association Hall of Fame (2006), induction into the Pasco High School Hall of Fame (2006), and the Port Angeles Educational Foundation Distinguished Service Award (2010), among many others.

By the time he retired in 2017, the Port Angeles High School strings program had expanded to three orchestras and more than 160 students, while the district as a whole grew to serve over 700 string musicians. Throughout his 42-year tenure, Ron Jones exemplified commitment, humility, and compassion, leaving a lasting impact on his students, his school, and the community.