“I believe it is important to teach with the 3 R's in mind: Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships"-- Kelly H. Merricks

Dan River High School (DRHS) is pleased to announce that Kelly H. Merricks has been named as Employee of the Week.

Mrs. Merricks has been teaching for four years. She has taught Earth Science, Biology, Physics, Forensic Science, Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology. She is the Lead Science Teacher and Department Chair for DRHS.

She is a graduate of University of North Carolina at Wilmington earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She also earned Master of Education in Biology specialization from Averett University as well as a certificate in Forensic Science from Rockingham Community College.

Mrs. Merricks has been married to Steven Merricks for three years. Sergeant Merricks recently returned from Iraq where he was deployed for 10 months with the 3/116th Division of the Virginia Army National Guard.

The Merricks happily share their home with two cats and a pot belly pig named Jesse.

Being an educator is very important to Mrs. Merricks. She says, "I believe it is important to teach with the 3 R's in mind: Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships.   I believe every child has a specific purpose in life and it is my job to get to know the child and help relate each subject to what they believe. I want my classes to be challenging to the students, as well as, an enjoyable learning experience. I always enjoy getting to know my students and find out what their specific interests are. I am involved in several school activities such as the Science Club,  Student Council Association, 9th Grade Academy, High Schools That Work, and the prom."

Thank you, Mrs. Merricks, for all you do to teach our children and to enrich their lives in so many ways. Congratulations on being named Employee of the Week.