Surry County Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Abby King as the new Director of Elementary Education and Curriculum for the district.
“I am deeply honored to be selected as the new Director of Elementary Education for Surry County Schools,” says King. “I look forward to continuing the instructional excellence led by our district at all levels. I believe that education is our greatest asset in creating excellent life outcomes for all students, regardless of background. Moving forward, I am eager to build upon all the work that SCS staff have invested in education to ensure exceptional academic outcomes for every student.”
King brings a strong background in literacy instruction and curriculum leadership to the role. She most recently served as an Early Literacy Specialist with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI), where she worked closely with school and district leaders to improve literacy outcomes through coaching, professional development, and data-driven decision-making.
Prior to her work with NCDPI, King served as a Curriculum and Literacy Specialist with Surry County Schools, supporting K-5 teachers and students through targeted reading interventions, Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) leadership, and professional learning aligned to the Science of Reading. Her experience also includes four years as a classroom teacher in Wilkes County Schools, where she taught English language arts, math, and social studies.
King holds a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching, Schools and Society from Salem College, a Master of Education in Reading Education from Appalachian State University, and a Graduate Certificate in School Leadership. She is a LETRS Volume 1 and Volume 2 Facilitator and holds multiple teaching and administrative certifications. She is also fluent in Spanish.
“Abby's depth of knowledge in literacy, her passion for the work, and her commitment to supporting both teachers and students make her an excellent fit for this role,” said Shannon DuPlessis, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for Surry County Schools. “We are excited to welcome her into this leadership position and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our elementary schools.”
As Director of Elementary Education, King will support instructional leadership across the district’s elementary schools, with a focus on evidence-based practices, continuous improvement, and student success.

