The Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities recognized Minerva Elementary School for its ongoing partnership with the board’s Reach 4 More program. Pictured from left are Business Engagement Specialist Paul Anthony, CCBDD Superintendent William Devon, Minerva Schools Assistant Custodian Josh Kerr, Elementary School Principal Becky Miller and Assistant Principal Chad Hilliard. Kerr, who is a Minerva alumni, has been employed at the school for 10 years. (Submitted photo)

MINERVA – Josh Kerr, custodial assistant at Minerva Elementary School, is an inspiration to those who know him. A proud 2015 Minerva graduate, Kerr has worked part-time for the school for 10 years. Recently the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Reach 4 More employment program recognized Minerva Elementary and Kerr for their dedication to inclusivity and ensuring differently abled individuals are part of the team.

Kerr was the guest of honor during the presentation, which took place in the cafeteria during third grade lunch. Following the presentation, the students gave Kerr a big “Whoo-Hoo” ovation.

CCBDD Superintendent William Devon thanked the school for their long collaboration with Reach 4 More.

“Ten years is a significant employment milestone,” Devon said. “Josh is a dependable, capable employee and I’m proud of the great working relationship he and the staff have developed over the years. The superintendent, principal, staff and students foster a wonderful environment for people with disabilities. It’s a wonderful testament to the entire community that they support one of their own and help them succeed.”

Kerr, who also works next door at the Minerva YMCA, exudes hometown pride and school spirit. He loves football, especially Ohio State, and attends the Minerva Lions football games. But he also attends as many other sporting events as he can to support the students.

He said one of the most rewarding aspects of his job is working with the students.

“I like seeing the kids do great work,” he said.

He acknowledged the staff, including supervising custodian Matt Murphy, Assistant Principal Chad Hilliard, Principal Becky Miller and Officer Frank Douglas, for making the workdays enjoyable and productive.

Miller praised Kerr for performing his job well and going above and beyond to help the children. She said he zips coats when they go outside, takes cafeteria trays to the dishwasher and supports the district’s athletic programs by attending games.

“I thank Josh for coming to work every day with a smile and a can-do attitude,” she said. “We’re just grateful to have him.”

CCBDD Business Engagement Specialist Paul Anthony expressed similar sentiments about Kerr’s job performance.

“Josh has a positive outlook on life and shows that by his enthusiasm in the workplace,” Anthony said.

Kerr’s sister, Ashley Toussant, attended the presentation and described her brother as kind, caring and someone who wants the best for the kids he works with.

“He is an inspiration to anyone he is around. He is a hard worker and his dedication to this job is inspiring to all of us,” she said.

Toussant also gave appreciation to the staff who have been helpful to her brother during his tenure at the school.

“He has so many great mentors here,” she said.

Reach 4 More provides long-term follow-along services, business engagement and informational services to ensure continued success for employers and individuals who are differently abled. Through collaboration and referrals with organizations such as Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities and many area employment service providers, the board can assist clients with long-term vocational services.