Superintendent Tracy Grit is pleased to announce that Jennifer Blake has been selected as the 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year for McDowell County Schools. Mrs. Blake currently teaches sixth-grade math at Foothills Community School. Additionally, Stephanie Roland has been named Elementary Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Roland teaches third grade at Pleasant Gardens Elementary School.
Assistant Superintendents Amy Dowdle, Crystal Hamby, and Chad Marsh, along with Superintendent Tracy Grit, visited both schools to surprise the teachers with the announcement in front of their students and colleagues. All school-level winners were also recognized at the annual Educational Gala, which honors the dedication, passion, and commitment of McDowell County Schools educators.
The faculty at each school in the district selects a school winner each year as part of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Teacher of the Year process. Each school winner then undergoes a comprehensive evaluation based on a professional portfolio, classroom observation, and an interview with the district selection committee. This rigorous process culminates in the district honoring an Elementary and a Secondary Teacher of the Year. One of those two exceptional educators is then selected as the overall MCS Teacher of the Year and will represent the district at the regional level.
Jennifer Blake began her career with McDowell County Schools as a contracted English as a Second Language teacher from 2003 to 2006, then became a full-time certified teacher on July 10, 2006. She has dedicated over 19 years of service to the students of McDowell County. Throughout her career, Mrs. Blake has served students at Eastfield Global Magnet School, Glenwood Elementary School, and currently, Foothills Community School, where she teaches sixth-grade math.
Colleagues describe Mrs. Blake as an educator who builds strong relationships with students while creating engaging learning experiences that inspire confidence and achievement. Her commitment to student success and her passion for education have made a lasting impact on the students and families she serves.
Stephanie Roland began her career with McDowell County Schools as a Teacher Assistant in August 2004 before moving into a teaching position in December 2006. She has faithfully served McDowell County Schools for over 21 years. Throughout her years in education, Mrs. Roland has demonstrated unwavering dedication to students and a commitment to fostering a positive, nurturing learning environment.
District leaders praised Mrs. Roland for her servant leadership, compassionate approach to education, and ability to foster meaningful relationships with students and colleagues alike. Her dedication to helping students succeed both academically and personally exemplifies the mission and values of McDowell County Schools.
Superintendent Tracy Grit shared, “Jennifer Blake and Stephanie Roland represent the very best of McDowell County Schools. Their commitment to students, passion for teaching, and dedication to excellence are evident in the positive impact they make every day. We are proud to honor them and celebrate their accomplishments.”
Jennifer Blake shared, “I am deeply honored to be named Teacher of the Year for McDowell County Schools. Our district is filled with outstanding and dedicated educators, and I am truly humbled by this recognition. I am incredibly grateful for the support of my students, colleagues, administrators, and community. My students inspire me every day with their resilience, growth, and determination, and it is a privilege to be part of their journey.”
Stephanie Roland shared, “It is an honor to represent Pleasant Gardens Elementary and McDowell County Schools as Elementary Teacher of the Year. Teaching has always been more than a job to me—it is something I have felt called to do for as long as I can remember. I am grateful for the students, families, coworkers, and mentors who have shaped me throughout this journey. I am proud to work alongside educators who are deeply committed to helping students grow into confident learners, problem solvers, and kind individuals.”
As the overall McDowell County Schools Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Blake will represent the district at the Northwest Regional Teacher of the Year competition later this year.