HUNTERSVILLE – Blythe Elementary School selected second grade teacher Karen Young as its 2011-12 Teacher of the Year.

Young began teaching at Blythe 13 years ago when she signed on as a technology teacher. She has spent the last nine years teaching second grade. She holds a degree in elementary education from UNC Charlotte and a master’s degree in literacy instruction from Lesley University. She also received National Board Certification in 2006 and assesses National Board Certification renewals during her summers.

“Teaching is my love and my passion,” Young said. “Each teacher will tell you the best part of their job comes when you notice a child understands something that you have taught. It is my hope and dream to end my career at the same place I started, Blythe Elementary.”