09/21/2026
For the month of September, we are recognizing Vice-Chairperson of the ARDB Board of Trustees, Jerry Belew, as our Board Member of the Month. Jerry enjoyed lunch with two outstanding members of our SAC, Deaf Dept. freshman Brayden Radtka and Blind Dept. senior Jolene Adams, to learn more about them. He also attended our Deaf Dept. Spirit Rally and shared a story of encouragement with students to help us kick off International Week of the Deaf!
Jerry grew up attending Arkansas School for the Deaf, graduating in the class of 1976. He went on to further his education at Gallaudet University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education to teach physical education and mathematics. He returned to his Arkansas alma mater to teach math and coach the football team. He also taught ASL at Arkansas State University for 20 years.
After teaching at ASD, he began a 35-year career with the U.S. Postal Service. He started as a postal clerk and later became one of the first Deaf window clerks in the United States. "I believe I was also the only window clerk at the time who used ASL to communicate with customers rather than speaking English and reading lips."
During the final five years of his postal career, he served as postmaster of a small branch office. "Advancing in the Postal Service was not always easy, and I faced and fought through several battles involving discrimination. I am grateful that I persevered and won those battles."
Jerry has been married for nearly 40 years, and family has always been an important part of his life. He has two grown children and one 5-year-old grandson, "whom I absolutely adore." Now retired after 35 years with the postal service, he enjoys bass fishing, deer hunting, and spending time with his grandson. "The years I've spent running 'PawPaw Daycare' have truly been some of the happiest and most rewarding years of my life!"
Jerry's quote: "I know firsthand the impact Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind can have on a young person's life because I lived it. As a student, ASD gave me opportunities, friendships, and a sense of belonging. As a board member, I am honored to help ensure today's students have those same opportunities.
