Gilmer County High School – April 24, 2025
Gilmer County High School is proud to announce Mr. Daniel Hill as the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. Mr. Hill has spent the last decade as a dedicated teacher of the sciences with an inexorable passion for learning, teaching, and helping students reach their full potential.
After earning his undergraduate degrees in English and biology from West Virginia University in 2009, Mr. Hill embarked upon his journey as an educator in the Mountain State. He worked as a substitute teacher across all grade levels and subjects in Calhoun County Schools. “I found that working with young people [was] energizing and saw the possibilities that a career in education could offer me,” Hill stated “I became a teacher because I have always loved learning. I have a passion for sharing knowledge and ideas with other people.” Inspired by helping young minds in Calhoun County, Hill later completed a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction—also from WVU—along with certifications in chemistry, biology, and general science.
Hill began his full-time teaching career at University High School in Morgantown, where he taught chemistry in 2014. In 2020, with the birth of his son Jackson, Mr. Hill and his wife made the difficult decision to return to their Appalachian roots and settle closer to family in Calhoun and Gilmer counties. He joined the staff at Gilmer County High School in 2021 and has since expanded his credentials to include a certification in physics.
In his tenth year as a full-time teacher, Mr. Hill says the honor of being selected as Teacher of the Year is exceptionally meaningful because it comes from his peers. “Teaching is a tough job,” he shared. “And while I try to remain conscious of the blessings I receive by having the opportunity to make an impact on young people every day, it is nice to be officially recognized for these efforts by my colleagues. I am so thankful to work with such a wonderful and supportive group of individuals.”
From building popsicle stick bridges to test engineering principles to complex titrations, Mr. Hill’s classroom is renowned for its high energy and engagement. Hill’s ethos that all students can succeed in the sciences is exemplified by his positive, encouraging atmosphere. “I try my best to make my students aware of their own potential and let them know what they are capable of,” said Hill, “I see how much my students look up to me, so I am inspired to always present the best version of myself that I can.” Looking ahead, Mr. Hill is excited about the addition of new "music technology" and astronomy courses next year. He looks forward to using the updated curriculum to continue inspiring students with a love of learning and the confidence to pursue their passions.
Gilmer County Schools congratulates Mr. Daniel Hill on his well-earned recognition and thanks him for his dedication to students, science, and the future of education at Gilmer County High School. "Mr. Hill possesses a remarkable ability to make complex scientific concepts both engaging and understandable,” said J.T. Fox, GCHS Principal, “His genuine rapport with students fosters a supportive learning environment, inspiring curiosity, confidence, and a lasting appreciation for science." We look forward to the innovation and inspiration he will continue to bring to our classrooms and beyond!
Mr. Hill will now compete at the county level for Gilmer County Teacher of the Year!