Community News

School system honors Teacher of the Year

By Lightning Reports, Published: May 8, 2025

Marley Moreno-Hollifield, the art teacher at Henderson County Career Academy, was named Henderson County public schools’ 2025 Teacher of the Year on Thursday at the annual award luncheon sponsored by AdventHealth and Boyd Chevrolet.

Moreno-Hollifield has transformed her instruction into an experience where students take ownership of their learning. The result: authentic, thoughtful artwork that reflects not only technical growth but deep personal expression.

“Caring about students means giving them freedom to explore and grow on their own terms, while always being available to provide guidance and assistance,” she said.

“Marley Moreno-Hollifield is an educator who leads with heart, vision, and purpose,” schools Superintendent Mark R. Garrett said. “She empowers her students to discover their voice through art and fosters a classroom culture that champions creativity, collaboration, and confidence. We are proud to have her represent Henderson County Public Schools as our 2025 Teacher of the Year.”

A graduate of UNC-Asheville with a bachelor of arts in art degree, Moreno-Hollifield has redefined what arts education can look like through her student-centered approach. Her classroom is more than a place to learn about color theory or brush strokes—it’s a vibrant studio space where students are empowered to make decisions, explore diverse materials, and take creative risks.

Beyond the classroom, Moreno-Hollifield plays a vital role in strengthening school culture—organizing student events, promoting student government, and encouraging staff unity. Her leadership extends into the broader community through her involvement with the GEM (Girls Empowered) program, the United Way of Henderson County’s Rising Leaders cohort and public art initiatives supporting literacy.

“My greatest contribution as a teacher has been instilling confidence in students, regardless of their technical skill in art,” Moreno-Hollifield said. “It’s a joy to watch them feel empowered to share their ideas and see value in their own voice.”

Her contributions also include painting a 2025 Bearfootin’ Bear for auction to benefit The Literacy Connection, serving as Secondary Division Chair of the North Carolina Art Education Association and volunteering with local wildlife rehabilitator “Possum Pat” during her summer break.

Following Thursday’s ceremony at The Main Event downtown, Moreno-Hollifield returned to Career Academy to a surprise celebration filled with artwork, cheers and hugs from students and staff.

“Ms. Moreno-Hollifield brings joy and humor into every corner of our school,” Innovative High School Principal Kirbey Farley said. “She is deeply respected by students and staff alike for her positivity, leadership, and belief in the power of education to transform lives.”

Like all 23 school-level honorees, Moreno-Hollifield was nominated by her peers as her school’s Teacher of the Year. After a series of interviews with a selection committee made up of administrators, board members, parents, and the previous Teacher of the Year, she was chosen to represent the school district as its 2025 Teacher of the Year.

The HCPS Teacher of the Year receives a commemorative plaque, an all-expense-paid trip to a state education conference of her choice and $4,500 from Boyd Chevrolet. Optimum contributed a gift basket and an $800 DonorsChoose gift card to support Moreno-Hollifield’s classroom.