Former North Buncombe assistant principal brings 'servant leader' mentality
Dylan Johnson will become the new principal at Mitchell High, effective July 1. Johnson, a former assistant principal at North Buncombe High, will replace Mark Woody, who is retiring. Woody has served in the role since 2008. (Submitted photo)
LEDGER — Dylan Johnson is set to become the next principal at Mitchell High School.
Johnson, who is entering his eighth year in education, will take over for Mark Woody, who is retiring after 13 years as principal at Mitchell High. Johnson will officially begin his duties on July 1.
Johnson comes to Mitchell from North Buncombe High where he most recently served as assistant principal. He has also been a high school science teacher, physical education teacher, athletics coach and athletic director.
Johnson has a wife and three children— ages 8, 4 and 3 months.
Johnson earned his master’s in school administration from Western Carolina. He also serves in the Army National Guard.
Johnson was introduced Wednesday, May 12 during the regular meeting of the Mitchell County Board of Education, which was held at Mitchell High.
Superintendent Chad Calhoun announced the hire of Johnson and allowed him to briefly address the board and meeting attendees.
“I promise I won’t let you down,” Johnson said. “I promise every decision I make will be the best for the school and the community.”
Johnson said when he first came to Mitchell County and saw Mitchell High, he had a good feeling.
“As I walked through the halls, I saw how there is a strong foundation,” he said. “I felt right.”
Johnson described himself as a “servant leader” and said he always strives to lead by example.
Johnson added that teamwork with the Mitchell High faculty, staff and other administrators will be key.
“I’m not a one-man show,” Johnson said. “I’m a team person. No one can do anything by themselves.”
Johnson has previously worked in Brunswick, Buncombe, Catawba and Wilkes counties and said over the years, he’s established a trio of priorities— ensuring safety, leading by example and fostering a team atmosphere.
Johnson said once students enter the building, they are his responsibility until they leave for the day. Keeping them safe during this time, he said, is a top priority.
Johnson added that he will never ask anyone to do something that he wouldn’t do himself.
“We will always move forward,” Johnson said. “Never backward and never standing still. Stuff won’t be great all the time, but we can all move forward with a positive outlook.”