GHS - Donetta Kerr: A Ridgerunner Through and Through
Grove High School is proud to recognize Donetta Kerr, GHS Librarian, as our August Staff Member of the Month!
A proud Grove alumna and second generation Ridgerunner, Mrs. Kerr has dedicated 35 years to education, including the past 15 years serving at Grove High School. Education runs deep in the Kerr family. Her father was a Grove Ag teacher, her husband currently teaches Aviation at GHS, and both of her daughters are Speech Pathologists with Grove Public Schools. Her granddaughter is now a student at ECC, making the Kerr family a true third-generation Ridgerunner family!
Donetta says she always knew she would become an educator because she grew up surrounded by educators. Although she began her career teaching first grade, she eventually found her home in the library, where she describes her role as being a cheerleader and encourager, helping students discover their passions and find their place in life. “I want them to find their inner passion and place in life.”
Her impact extends far beyond the library. GHS Principal Bobby Kreutz says, “She is always thinking of how to help our building... Mrs. Kerr is always thinking of others and puts the team first.” Whether she is brightening a colleague’s day with flowers, covering a class when a substitute isn't available, or finding another way to support the GHS team, Donetta is always ready to help.
One of her most lasting contributions began about 10 years ago when a student approached her wanting to make a difference in the community. From that conversation, COW Week, (Changing Our World) was born.
What started as a student’s desire to help has grown into a philanthropic student organization that has raised thousands of dollars every year for the past decade for important community and school projects. During its very first year, students raised more than $13,000! This year, Donetta is passing the baton of leadership to the next generation, confident that COW Week is in good hands.
She also teaches Leadership/Entrepreneurship, encouraging students to discover what they love and learn how to create something meaningful from that passion.
And when she's not at school? You'll likely find Donetta at the lake, boating and enjoying family time with a boat full of kids, or creating beautiful flower arrangements.
When asked what “We Are Grove” means to her, her answer says it all: “It means everything to me! I'm a second generation Ridgerunner and my kids are third generation. I'm a Ridgerunner through and through.”
Donetta, thank you for 35 years of pouring into students, supporting your colleagues, serving your community, and carrying the Ridgerunner spirit forward. We are proud to call you one of ours! Congratulations, Mrs. Kerr!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
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