Meet the Administrators
It is a true honor to rejoin the Wilkes Central family. Having grown up in these very halls, I know firsthand what a special place this is, and I am committed to making sure every student feels that same sense of pride and belonging.
I am not here to reinvent the wheel. Remarkable schools are built day by day by passionate educators, supportive families, and engaged community members. My priority is to listen, learn, and partner with you. This year, I look forward to learning about the traditions that define us, what is serving our students best, and where we can elevate our impact together.
I operate on trust, strong relationships, continuous improvement, and the belief that every staff member and student has limitless potential. My role is to support our school community, celebrate your successes, and champion our shared goals.
Thank you for welcoming me back into the Eagle family. Let’s accomplish great things together and make Wilkes Central the same home away from home for our students that it was for me.
With Eagle Pride,
Mr. Dylan Johnson
Mrs. Kendall Steelman
Assistant Principal
Welcome, Eagle Family. I am excited to enter this chapter as an assistant principal for Wilkes Central High School. I come from a family of educators in this profession, and I believe relationships are the key to success. I also have a background in athletics and am a true believer in “Teamwork makes the dream work.” Always remember we are working together, rising to the challenge of success and holding all accountable. This is my 17th year in the Central district for Wilkes County Schools. I truly appreciate all this community has to offer. Wilkes Central High School has a reputation for success in academics, arts, and sports. As this school year begins, I encourage all staff, students, and families to encourage all positive happenings at “The Nest”. Please make time each day to reflect on the WCHS mission statement, so that as Eagles we stay connected, empowered, prepared. And most importantly, EAGLES LEAD!
Be sure to set goals for this school year to excel in and out of the classroom. You never know who you can encourage to safe and smart actions just by a simple hello or providing a helping hand. Please understand that my goal for this year is to be a resource to all of our Eagle Family. Thank you for your preparation in getting ready to start your engines; you are on the right track and the finish line is in sight. For as Eagles, we stay connected, empowered, and prepared.
Mr. Matthew Taylor
Assistant Principal
Welcome, Eagle Family! I am thrilled to join the administrative team in my 20th year in education as an assistant principal here at Wilkes Central High School. Throughout my career in secondary education, my passion has always centered on empowering students to reach their highest potential and supporting teachers in doing what they do best.
Education is built on trust, consistency, and meaningful connections. I believe that when high expectations meet genuine support, incredible growth happens. Having spent the majority of my career just across the county, I'm well aware that Wilkes Central has a proud tradition of excellence across academics, the arts, and athletics, and I am a firm believer that birds of different feathers can still flock—and succeed—together!
As we embark on this school year together, I encourage every student to approach each day with curiosity, purpose, and pride. Embrace the challenges, lean into new opportunities, and look out for one another along the way. My door is always open, and my priority is to be an active, accessible resource for our talented student body, dedicated staff, and supportive community as we work together toward common goals.
Let's make this an outstanding year of growth and achievement. As Eagles, we remain connected, empowered, and prepared. Eagles Lead!