Born January 13, 1965 – Passed November 1, 2025

At Inlet Grove Community High School, Ms. Deanna Pientka was more than a Grade Advisor — she was family. Her kindness, warmth, and guidance left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew her.

Ms. Pientka dedicated nearly 20 years of her life to Inlet Grove. She began her journey as a history teacher, and later served as the school’s test coordinator, and eventually became an Assistant Principal.

No matter the role, she gave her heart completely to her students and staff. Her belief in the potential of every student helped countless young people find their confidence and purpose.

Through her seven-year battle with breast cancer, Ms. Pientka continued to inspire everyone around her with her strength, grace, and positivity. Her smile could brighten any room, and her compassion made Inlet feel like home to so many.

Outside of school, Ms. Pientka was deeply devoted to her family. She was the proud mother of two beautiful children, Jacob and Jennifer — both Inlet Grove graduates — and the loving grandmother of three gorgeous granddaughters who brought her endless joy. In 2023, she retired to focus on her health and to spend more cherished time with her family.

And of course, anyone who knew Ms. Pientka knew about her love for chocolate. Whether it was a tough day or a moment of celebration, she believed that almost anything could be made better with a little chocolate — and she wasn’t wrong.

“Well, I’ll definitely always remember Ms. Pientka. When I interviewed for the job, she’s the person who interviewed me,” said Mr. Sutton. He continued, “Once I got the job, she became my mentor. For years, she guided me and taught me what it means to be an educator.”

“Ms. Pientka was truly one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known. No matter what I was going through — whether it was something at school or in my personal life — she was always there for me.” Said former student Esterline Stephen.

She continued saying, “Her warm smile and kind eyes had a way of making everything feel okay. She cared so deeply and gave her heart to every student, including me. The impact she left on my life is something I’ll always carry with me.”

“I had the pleasure of having Ms. Pientka as a teacher in high school my freshman year, and she instantly became a second mom to me. She has never left my side the past 20 years. She always pushed me to be a better version of myself and was always a shining light. Ms. Pientka has played such a huge part in so many of our lives and our students,” said Ms. Kim.

Ms. Pientka’s legacy will forever live on in the halls of Inlet Grove and in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to have known her.