2003 Wake County Teacher of the Year

Johnny D. Gatlin
2003 Wake County
Teacher of the Year

2003 Finalists

  • Susan Banks of Combs Elementary

  • Mary Davis of Centennial Campus Middle

  • Anna Evenhouse of Salem Elementary

  • Elic A. Senter of Wakefield High

  • Pamela Smith of Lynn Road Elementary

  • Christy Story of Conn Elementary

Johnny D. Gatlin
Middle Creek High


Johnny D. Gatlin, a Middle Creek High earth science/environmental science teacher, said that his parents impressed upon him the importance of education.

"I can remember them saying, 'Your education is something that can never be taken from you. You will always have that.' Also they believed that a solid education would open doors that they never saw opened for them," said Gatlin. "In my parents' eyes, education wasn't an isolated entity at the local school. Rather, it was a process that happened both at the school and at home. A process they were actively involved in. All of these beliefs and actions shaped my personal philosophy of teaching."

Assistant Principal Martha Ramsey praised Gatlin for his efforts as the new school opened.

"Mr. Gatlin is intelligent, articulate, and hardworking; he is a capable, effective teacher and school leader who consistently demonstrates initiative, professionalism and dedication," Ramsey said. "He commands respect from students and colleagues. He seeks opportunities that challenge him professionally, yet allows him in turn to use the experience to improve student learning and achievement and improve the school as a learning community."

Gatlin named NC North Central Region Teacher of the Year

Wake County Teacher of the Year Johnny Gatlin loves to teach

Middle Creek High Teacher is Wake County Teacher of the Year