The end of the 2025-2026 school year marks the end of an incredible tenure from Mr. Don Donley. After 55 years of service to the Groton Area School District, Mr. Donley is retiring.
The impact Mr. Donley has left on all of us - colleagues, students, and friends, has made us all better.
Today, in recognition of an outstanding individual, Governor Larry Rhoden declared May 15, 2026 as Don Donley Day in South Dakota.
The Executive Proclamation reads:
Whereas, Don Donley's dedication to the profession of education has made him invaluable to his students and his community; and,
Whereas, throughout his career, Mr. Donley has created a classroom environment that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and problem solving; and,
Whereas, Don Donley has devoted 55 years of his life committed to his students and the Groton Area School District as a teacher, mentor, and bus driver; and,
Whereas, his instruction and guidance has left a remarkable impact on hundreds of students and colleagues in the Groton Area School District and across the state of South Dakota; and,
Whereas, the positive influence of Mr. Don Donley extends beyond the classroom, inspiring students to pursue higher education and training, meaningful careers, and active citizenship; and,
Whereas, the dedication and passion exhibited by Mr. Don Donley exemplifies the highest ideals of the teaching profession; and,
Whereas, the lasting impact of Mr. Don Donley is reflected in the achievements, character, and aspirations of the many students whose lives he has touched;
Now, Therefore, I, Larry Rhoden, Governor of the State of South Dakota, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2026 as
Don Donley Day
in South Dakota.