Hendersonville – North Henderson High School’s Dylan King has been awarded the prestigious title of Teacher of the Year for the district. The announcement was made at an award luncheon on Thursday, May 11th, sponsored by AdventHealth and Boyd Chevrolet.
With 19 years of experience at Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS), King teaches science to 10th through 12th grade students. He holds a Master’s Degree in Teaching from Western Carolina University, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
A Journey to Teaching
King’s path to becoming a teacher wasn’t a direct one. While studying biotechnology with a focus on genetic research during college, he began reflecting on how he wanted to utilize his education and shape his life’s purpose.
“I realized that my passion for genetics extended beyond the lab and into the realm of sharing knowledge with others,” King explained. He fondly recalled his time as a camp counselor, where he enjoyed teaching campers about the wonders of the outdoors. This realization ignited his mission to find joy in helping others reach their full potential.
A Teacher-Leader
At North Henderson High School, King is regarded as a “teacher-leader” among his colleagues. He takes pride in being someone whom faculty and administration can turn to for assistance and advice. “Creating an environment where teachers can collaborate and support each other is crucial for success,” King emphasized.
His Teaching Philosophy
King believes that every student, regardless of their background and prior academic performance, can achieve success when provided with a clear objective and a pathway to attain it. This belief has made him an outstanding teacher in the eyes of his students and peers.
Contributions to the Community
In addition to his dedication inside the classroom, King has been a co-advisor for the National Honor Society chapter at North for over a decade. Together with his students, he volunteers their time to tutor fellow students at North and feeder schools. They also actively participate in community service initiatives such as volunteering at Manna Food Bank, raising funds for cancer research, assisting with campus clean-ups, and supporting the Special Olympics through involvement in the spring games.
Outside of the school environment, King participates in the Buddy Walk benefiting the Down Syndrome Alliance and leads the school’s Leader in Me initiative. He organizes Project Graduation at North and serves as a Den Leader with a local Cub Scout chapter. Additionally, he coaches a youth soccer program, imparting the values of sportsmanship to young athletes in the community.
Recognition and Celebrations
Following the award reception at Jeter Mountain Farm, King returned to North Henderson High School, where he was warmly welcomed by a parade of students and staff. Principal Dr. John Shepard expressed his excitement, stating, “This is an exciting moment for the entire North Henderson community. Mr. King’s unwavering care for his students and commitment to providing the highest quality instruction make everyone around him better.”
Teacher of the Year Selection Process
King’s recognition as Teacher of the Year is the result of a thorough nomination and selection process. Like the other 23 nominees representing elementary, middle, and high schools, he was nominated by his peers. The selection committee, comprising an administrator, a parent, a board member, and the previous Teacher of the Year, conducted extensive interviews before choosing King as the representative for Henderson County Public Schools in 2023.
Honors and Rewards
Traditionally, HCPS Teachers of the Year receive a commemorative plaque, an all-expense-paid trip to a state education conference of their choice, and a $1,000 grant from AdventHealth. Starting in 2021, the HCPS Teacher of the Year also receives an additional reward: $4,500 to be used for a vacation getaway of their choice, generously provided