Doris June Martin Kelly is a 1979 graduate of Todd County Central High School.
Kelly values most the size of Todd Central. She says with it being a smaller high school compared to others, it’s easier to become close friends with other students as well as the teachers. Not only does she have good memories as a student, but also from her time as an art teacher at Todd Central. Kelly says not a day goes by that she doesn’t run into one of her past students and they always have kind words to share. She adds they will never know how much their comments mean to her and it makes every day she worked worth all the long hours, sweat and tears she shed.
Of all her memories from the school, her favorite is teaching students who were naturally gifted. Not only did she help guide them in recognizing their own potential, but she says she also learned a significant amount from them. She is so proud of those who continued with their skills and created a lifetime journey. She adds it was always very memorable to see a student who thought they had no creativity or art skills glowing with pride after completing a piece of artwork.
Kelly advises current Todd Central students not to be afraid to talk to their teachers and to take advantage of everything they have to offer. She says to always remember teachers are there for them, not the money. If students accept their teachers’ knowledge and experience they can help make their dreams a reality – high school is one big step toward the future.
To current educators, she says to invest in their students. She adds they may not thank them now, but they will in the future. Treat students with respect, make them feel equal in the classroom and most of all, listen to them. She says if students know teachers are willing to help them, a few of them will take advantage of what they have to offer. When those students walk across the stage to accept their diplomas, she says they can be proud and say, “that’s one of mine!”
After graduating, Kelly earned a bachelor’s degree in K-12 art education from Austin Peay State University before receiving her master’s in secondary education counseling from Western Kentucky University. From 1984 – 1988, she was an art teacher for grades kindergarten through eighth in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, then eventually came back to Todd County to initiate the art education program for the district. Kelly taught art at South Todd Elementary, North Todd Elementary and TCCHS before retiring in 2011.
Kelly currently lives in Guthrie, Kentucky with her husband, Jimmy L.J. Kelly, and has one child, Jamie.
Spotlights on Todd Central alumni are part of a partnership between WEKT and the TCCHS Alumni Foundation, Inc. To be featured, please visit the Alumni Foundation’s website to fill out the application.
