Rathmore teacher named on Teachers Inspire shortlist

Jerh O’Donoghue, now retired, who was a teacher at Sliabh Luachra Secondary School in Rathmore, Co. Kerry (formerly St. Mary’s Secondary School) has been named on the shortlist for the inaugural Teachers Inspire Ireland initiative.  

The initiative, which is focused on highlighting the enormous contribution made by teachers in Irish society, was launched by Dublin City University (DCU) earlier this year, with the support of businessman and philanthropist Dermot Desmond.  

Over May and June, DCU called for members of the public to share their personal stories of how a teacher transformed their lives and / or their community.  Twenty shortlisted teachers – five from each province – have been shortlisted from over 400 entries received from every corner of Ireland.  None of the teachers knew they were nominated in advance.

Mr. O’Donoghue was nominated by his former student Joan Cronin.  Jerh was a founder of the Social Action Group in Rathmore, which – according to Joan – over the last 45 years “has transformed the rural community to a vibrant, social active place for young and old”.

Announcing the shortlist at DCU earlier this week, Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU, said: “The entries submitted to Teachers Inspire Ireland demonstrate just how significant a role teachers play in Irish life. 

“We received stories about teachers dealing in an inspirational way with major societal challenges.  We received stories of teachers who have played – and continue to play – a key part in helping individuals and whole communities adapt to change.  

“The nominations highlighted teachers dealing with issues such as homelessness, mental health, immigration, unplanned pregnancies, gender identity support, community regeneration, and climate change.  They were submitted by schoolchildren, parents, and people whose schooldays are long behind them but who remember their teachers with great fondness and gratitude.”