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By Charlotte Underwood
CAMPBELL COUNTY, TN. (WLAF) -Educators make a difference in students’ lives every day. For many students, having a school employee who cares and goes that extra mile can be the difference in a successful education and graduation. We’ve all had that teacher, or school employee who inspired us or helped in some way. That’s why WLAF and Eagle Tire Pros salute all of our hardworking educators with a weekly feature.
Rodney Dunham is Eagle Tire Pros Educator of the Week. He teaches Computer Technology at Jellico High School.
Dunham was born on March 29, 1972, to his “wonderful parents, Rodney and Jane Anne Dunham.” He grew up in the “cozy small town of Eldorado, Ohio, spending his days playing baseball, basketball, and football—”those were some of the best times, building friendships and learning teamwork on the field,” Dunham said.
He graduated from National Trail High School in 1990, where baseball was his” real passion”, and then headed to Cumberland College, which is what brought him to Tennessee.
“I played for three seasons, and honestly, that’s where I fell head over heels for this beautiful area—it’s felt like home ever since. These days, my hobbies revolve around keeping the clock at athletic events for school or working with my son-in-law on the weekends,” Dunham said.
He has been an educator since 1996 and has called Jellico High School home since 2007.
“I kicked things off teaching mathematics, but now I’m all about computer technology—it’s exciting to see kids light up when they code their first program or troubleshoot a tech issue. On top of that, I’m supervising our after-school program at JHS right now, which keeps me on my toes but is so rewarding,” Dunham said.
His inspiration to follow a career path in education came from his father.
“Hands down, it was my dad. He was the best father a kid could ask for, and I’d tag along to school with him sometimes. The way his students lit up around him, and how much he genuinely enjoyed connecting with them and loving his job—it stuck with me. I wanted that same joy, that sense of making a real difference every day. Becoming a teacher just felt like the natural path to follow in his footsteps,” Dunham said.
His” absolute favorite part of the job is watching those wide-eyed freshmen walk in as young, immature kids and then blossom into confident young adults who’ve figured out their path.”
His students keep him inspired and enjoying his job day in and day out.
“It’s magical seeing them make those big life choices—like deciding to become a certified plumber, welder, electrician, nurse, join the military, or head off to college—and thinking about how they’ll give back to our community. I’m so proud of our school and every single one of our students; they inspire me more than they know.”
Dunham had a message for all those who inspired him and supported him along the way.
“One more thing I’d love to share: I’ve found that same joy my dad had—showing up every day feels like a privilege. I get to work alongside some incredible teachers and principals at JHS; we’re like a tight-knit family here. And our kids? They’re amazing, always pushing to find their spot in the world and making us all proud. Shoutout to everyone who’s inspired me along the way, from my dad to my colleagues who’ve become friends.”
Every Thursday, WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood features the WLAF – Eagle Tire Pros teacher of the week. That educator also receives a free oil change from Eagle Tire Pros. To nominate a teacher for teacher of the week honors, please send your nomination to wlaf@1450wlaf.com.
(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED 10/16/2025-6AM)