The Highland High staff added a new asset to the English department this year. Griffin Kerr, who had previously taught at American Fork High School said, “I felt in my bones it was time for a change.”
Although Highland is more of a “run-down high school” especially compared to American Fork, Kerr embraced it. Highland hasn’t changed much at all since it was originally built in 1956, yet Kerr enjoys it and says he feels more at home here.
“I actually like the old school, the old building,” Kerr said. “This is what I pictured school being when I thought about teaching.”
Kerr offers a unique skill set in the English department, ready to challenge students to do more deep thinking, read more, and interact with one another. His old school love for English can be super enlightening to students especially considering his ability to relate to students with his younger age.
After graduating from Utah Valley University with a degree in English education, he taught at American Fork for 6 years. There he gained a lot of experience in teaching students and learning what worked well for him.
His focus on classic literature and writing is a core part of his teaching style. He believes that by studying works of the past, students can better understand the present and their role in the future.
Although his main goal is simple, yet somewhat ambitious in today’s world.
“I just want to get a kid to read a book,” said Kerr.
Outside of the classroom Kerr has very active, and productive weekends. To recover from the long week of teaching, on Friday nights he typically gets some food and decompresses over a nice movie.
Then on Saturdays, he hits the ground running…literally.
“Saturday morning, I get up early, usually go for a long run,” Kerr said. “Then I’ll run errands in the afternoon and get my apartment cleaned up. After that I usually do something social Saturday nights if I’m up for it. Whether it’s a date or catching up with some friends.”
Sunday morning he meets up with a climbing group, then later preps meals and gets his lessons planned out for the week.
Clearly Kerr is a very productive individual. He’s always prepping for what’s coming next in his life along with staying active and on top of all of his responsibilities. He is a perfect role model and teacher for young high school students, trying to navigate an uncertain society.
English was always the answer for Kerr. As he grew up that was his forte, always his best subject and what he excelled in. When asked if English had always been his favorite subject, Kerr didn’t hesitate.
“Not a doubt,” Kerr said. “Although sometimes I wonder if I like the things I like just because I like them, or more just because I’m good at them.”
When taking Kerr’s class, students can expect to be hands on and ready to work.
“They’re going to talk to each other a lot. they’re going to read a lot of poetry, and a lot of classic literature.” Kerr said.
All in all, it’s clear that Highland is very lucky to have landed Kerr in the English department. His love for English, and fresh perspective on the subject is just what students need.
“Words are lies that tell us the truth—how could I do anything else, you know?” Kerr said.
