We’re thrilled to introduce one of the newest faces joining Salem High School family: Kevin Rafferty, who has stepped into the role of teacher and assistant coach in the Marketing and Baseball departments. A recent graduate of Norfolk State University, he is excited to bring his communication and leadership experience into education to our students and community. We sat down with Mr. Rafferty to learn more about his journey.
What do you teach and/or what is your role? Please include sports and club sponsorships.
I teach Marketing at Salem High School and serve as an assistant baseball coach for the Salem Sundevils. I’m passionate about connecting with students—whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or through school-wide campaigns that build leadership and community.
Where were you previously, and what brought you to Salem?
In my “previous life,” I spent 38 years in television—31 of them at WTKR-TV CBS 3 in Norfolk, where I served as News Operations Manager. I was honored to receive 13 Associated Press Awards, four individual Emmy Awards, and the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award. After decades in broadcasting, I felt called to bring my communication and leadership experience into education. Salem offered the perfect opportunity to do that while also being more present in my sons’ lives—Jack and Colin. Colin is now part of the Sundevils family, and Jack is charting his own path with pride.
What is your favorite thing about Salem so far?
The people. From day one, I’ve felt welcomed and supported. Ms. Hope Costanza has been an incredible mentor—her guidance, encouragement, and especially her patience have meant the world to me as I navigate high school again after 40 years. Salem is a place where support is real, and no one walks alone.
What inspired you to go into education (or work in a school)?
While still working full-time at WTKR-TV, I earned my Master’s degree from Norfolk State University and became an adjunct professor at Old Dominion University. I helped launch their broadcasting curriculum—from Intro to Journalism to advanced TV production—and helped build a student-run TV station that aired weekly campus news. Seeing students light up as they produced real content and found their voice—that’s what lit the spark. I realized I didn’t just want to teach skills—I wanted to help shape futures.
Share a fun fact about yourself (favorite music, hobbies, books).
I’m a proud New Yorker at heart—born and raised with a deep love for the Mets and the Giants (yes, I still believe every season is the season). I’ve got a soft spot for cheesy 80s movies—give me that unmistakable 80s keyboard vibe, a training montage, and a freeze-frame ending, and I’m all in.
