News

Surprise celebration honors Henderson County's Teacher of the Year

Fourth grade students at Glenn C. Marlow Elementary School cheer for Cody Merriman, Henderson County public school Teacher of the Year. [CONTRIBUTED]

By Lightning Reports, Published: May 5, 2026

Cody Merriman, a fourth-grade teacher at Glenn C. Marlow Elementary School, was named Henderson County public schools’ 2026 Teacher of the Year on Tuesday at the annual award luncheon sponsored by AdventHealth and Boyd Chevrolet.

Merriman is known for creating a dynamic, student-centered classroom where strong relationships and engaging instruction drive student success. By combining hands-on learning experiences with thoughtful integration of technology, he ensures that all students can connect with content in meaningful and lasting ways.

“I believe students learn best when they feel valued, supported and actively involved in the learning process,” he says.

“Mr. Merriman exemplifies the very best of public education,” schools Superintendent Mark R. Garrett said. “His commitment to building relationships, fostering student engagement, and continuously refining his practice reflects a deep dedication to both his students and the teaching profession. He represents the excellence we strive for across Henderson County public schools.”

A graduate of Old Dominion University, Merriman holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and brings 14 years of teaching experience to his role, including 11 with the Henderson County school district. His passion for teaching was sparked early on by an inspiring high school English teacher and later solidified through his work with children, where he discovered the lasting impact educators can have on students’ lives. He is a National Board Certified Teacher, having most recently renewed his certification in December 2025, reflecting his ongoing commitment to professional excellence and growth. 

Beyond the classroom, Merriman plays an active role in strengthening both his school and the broader community. He manages his school’s social media presence to celebrate student success and connect families with resources, serves on the yearbook committee, and helps lead the school’s talent show and after-school running club. As co-chair of the Better Together Committee, he promotes multicultural awareness and inclusion, and he is currently leading the development of a school-wide student leadership initiative.

“My goal as an educator is to create an environment where students feel safe to take risks, grow, and believe in their potential,” Merriman says. “When students know they are cared for, they are more willing to engage and succeed.”

Following Tuesday’s ceremony, Merriman returned to Glenn C. Marlow Elementary, where he was greeted by a surprise celebration. Fourth-grade students cheered him on outside the school with posters, pom-poms and a sign featuring his face, while the entire school lined the hallways to cheer him on. High-fives, applause and chants of “Go Mr. Merriman!” filled the building in a show of appreciation for his impact on the school community.

“Mr. Merriman is the kind of teacher every student hopes to have,” Marlow Principal John Hart said."His passion for teaching, commitment to his students, and leadership among his peers make a lasting impact on our entire school community. We are incredibly proud to see him recognized as Henderson County Teacher of the Year—an honor that is truly well deserved.”

Like all school-level honorees, Merriman was nominated by his peers and selected through a competitive process that included interviews with a panel of educators, administrators, and community members.

As the 2026 Teacher of the Year, Merriman will receive a commemorative plaque, $1,000 gifted by AdventHealth Hendersonville and a $4,500 check from Boyd Chevrolet.