Quint Dunlap, an automotive teacher at Pinecrest High, has been named a winner of the 2024 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence, winning $15,000 for himself and $35,000 for his school’s program.
Dunlap is one of 25 public high school skilled trades teachers across the United States who were surprised with the news that they had won. A total of $1.5 million in cash prizes were awarded Tuesday.
“The best part of teaching is being a mentor and positive role model for my students. I strive to create a supportive environment where students feel valued, respected, and empowered to pursue their passions,” Dunlap wrote in his prize application.
“I am thrilled to share that this afternoon, Pinecrest High School’s Automotive teacher, Quint Dunlap, was honored with the 2024 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence,” said Moore County Schools Director for Communications Charlie Batchelor in a press release. “He is one of only 25 awardees nationwide recognized today, and we couldn’t be prouder of Mr. Dunlap for this significant achievement.”
The prize, now in its eighth year, was created to recognize excellent high school skilled trades teachers, a group of educators who are frequently overlooked and underappreciated.
“We are thrilled to honor these 25 dedicated teachers who are making such an important difference in the lives of their students every day,” said Danny Corwin, executive director of Harbor Freight Tools for Schools, in a press release. “They have earned this prize because they are highly knowledgeable about the skilled trades, have a deep belief in the potential of their students, and have built programs that prepare students for a multitude of opportunities after high school.”
Dunlap was named the 2024-25 Alternate Teacher of the Year by the school district in April.
Feature photo: Quint Dunlap and his students celebrate at Pinecrest High on Oct. 8. Photo contributed by Harbor Freight.
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