HENDERSONVILLE – West Henderson High School’s Kelly Stepp was named the district’s Teacher of the Year on Thursday at the annual award luncheon.

With five years of dedicated service within Henderson County Public Schools, Stepp brings a wealth of experience to her role as a CTE Health Science educator. She holds a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Nursing from Western Carolina University and fulfilled teaching requirements at Isothermal Community College.

Stepp’s role as an educator is unique, as she spent the first 16 years of her professional career as a Labor & Delivery and Pediatric nurse. Her journey from the frontline of healthcare to the forefront of education is a testament to her commitment to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. Since beginning her teaching career at West Henderson, students have achieved a 100% pass rate for the Nurse I exam. 

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Stepp serves as the advisor for Future Health Professionals, instructs an additional course through Henderson County Virtual Public Schools, and actively coordinates blood drives at the school in collaboration with the Blood Connection.