Season 5- Episode 24: Tam & Kerry Larnerd

In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, we hear the story of Tam and Kerry Larnerd, two long-time educators whose careers shaped thousands of students in Southern Nevada. Kerry, originally from South Africa, grew up in Carson City before moving to Las Vegas to attend UNLV. She began teaching English at Silverado High School and went on to serve as an administrator at schools like Vo-Tech (now Southeast CTA), where she helped build industry partnerships with companies like Tesla. Even after retiring, Kerry returned to the classroom and now teaches English at Del Sol Academy, where she continues to inspire students with her focus on relationships and real-world readiness.

Tam grew up in Binghamton, New York, where he first worked as a DJ before turning to education. After earning a degree in health education, he moved to Nevada and began teaching at Basic High School before becoming a principal at both Bob Miller Middle School and Spring Valley High School. At Spring Valley, he helped transform the campus into an International Baccalaureate magnet school. After retiring, Tam shifted to national advocacy, working with Peer Helpers Plus, a program that trains students to support peers through challenges like mental health struggles and suicide prevention. His work has expanded into Texas, New Jersey, and beyond, supported by foundations dedicated to youth mental wellness.

Beyond their professional impact, the Larnerds live a full and active life. They enjoy hockey games, pickleball, card nights with friends, and summers at their family cabin on Lake Ontario. Together, they’ve driven across the country multiple times, embraced outdoor adventures like Sea-Dooing, and made space for family and travel as part of their balance after decades in demanding school leadership roles.

When asked what advice they would give young people, Kerry emphasized that education is a “people business” and urged future educators to always keep students and relationships at the center. Tam advised patience, encouraging teachers to spend time in the classroom before moving into administration so that they can balance career growth with family. Their shared message is clear: teaching is a calling that requires passion, perseverance, and heart.

Peer Helpers Plus:
https://thriveway.com/

Tesla Guided Education:

Tesla - Education Benefit | Guild