Since 2001, Donn Cottom has dedicated himself to improving the lives of primarily under-represented high school students and their communities as a high school ELA and journalism teacher and Interact club advisor in Los Angeles, California. Through the teaching of writing, reading, speaking, listening and journalism, Donn is deeply immersed in the betterment of instructional practice in literacy education.

In an unending quest to improve the communities in which he serves, Donn takes on leadership positions at his school site and in organizations directly impacting students, including ELA Department Chair, School Site Council, Local School Leadership Council, National Honor Society, Quill & Scroll, Interact Club, the local Rotary club and Journalism Education Association committees and Write-Off judging.  He is also involved in the Southern California Journalism Education Association where he currently serves as the Secretary, the California Association of Teachers of English, the National Council of Teachers of English, and the International Literacy Association.  

Based on his experiences in the community and in the classroom, Donn has written for community publications including the El Segundo Herald and the Los Angeles Times. During his first year at MaCES Magnet, his Interact club was awarded Best New Club by Los Angeles Rotary District 5280, and in his second year, inaugural Wolfpack Times’ staff members brought home numerous Media Contest awards including 1st place in News Writing at California State University/SoCalJEA media contests.

Despite a demanding schedule, Donn is dedicated to his wife, Melissa, his two sons, Luke and Liam, and his dog, Leini.  He loves reading, writing, fishing, surfing, snowboarding, and time spent with his family.