our mission is to inspire pride in america

Citizenship Counts mourns the passing our longtime board member, Don Streets, who served on our Board of Directors from our inception in 2008 until his recent passing in September 2021. Don was an incredible educator who spent 46 years in the field, having taught at the elementary, secondary, and university undergraduate and graduate levels. He received his B.S. from Indiana University, his Master's from Notre Dame and a graduate degree from University of Massachusetts. After completing his degree, he served on the faculty at UMass for 8 years. 

Soon after he became Associate Dean of Education at National University in San Diego where he co-directed the establishment of their School of Education and was promoted to Associate Dean of Graduate Studies. He spent the last 17 years of his career with the Mesa Unified School District, including 14 years as Principal of Lindbergh Elementary School. In his retirement he spent a great deal of time traveling and serving as an educational consultant in Finland and at the George Townshend International School in Hluboka, Czech Republic. 

Don’s passion for education, warmth, intelligence and gentle demeanor made him a truly unique individual. He loved connecting people, sharing ideas, traveling and engaging in deep philosophical discussions. He loved being around people who used their brains and really knew how to think and express themselves. 

Don embarked on travels all over the world with his family. He was compelled to open his sons’ eyes and broaden their perspectives on life and people that we otherwise would never know. His son Ramin Streets shared a story about travels to India many years ago where a stranger in was referred to Don as "the kindest man I have ever met.”  

World-renowned philosopher Alfred North Whitehead once said that “From the very beginning of his education, the child should experience the joy of discovery.” This was undoubtedly in Don’s DNA and something that he not imparted to his kids, but also shared with his many colleagues and friends throughout the world. 

Over the years Citizenship Counts was so fortunate to the recipient of Don’s wisdom, kindness and generosity. In memory of Don, we encourage and challenge our to take joy in your learning. Citizenship Counts will honor Don’s memory by renaming our annual writing and artwork contests for him. Additional details will be posted shortly.