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Manteo High School science teacher Emily DiNoto has been chosen to join the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership at North Carolina State University.
DiNoto is one of 36 educators chosen for the 2026-27 cohort of Kenan Fellows. This highly competitive and respected fellowship brings together K–12 teachers from a range of disciplines, including science, career and technical education, social studies, mathematics and English language arts.
“Ms. DiNoto is an outstanding educator whose dedication extends far beyond the classroom through her support of numerous extracurricular activities at Manteo High School. I am delighted to see her recognized for her commitment to continuous professional growth and excellence in education. This is a well-deserved honor, and I am grateful that such a prestigious organization has acknowledged the positive impact she makes on her students and Manteo High School, every day," said Dare County Schools Superintendent Steve Basnight.
The Kenan Fellows Program connects educators with the industries and communities shaping their regions through a yearlong fellowship. Participants engage in immersive summer externships in fields such as agriculture, energy, biotechnology, computer science and resiliency, gaining real-world experiences they can bring back to their classrooms.
Fellows also complete capstone projects focused on career pathways, professional skills and resources that help prepare students for the workforce. In addition, each Fellow receives 80 hours of professional development, a $5,000 stipend and access to a statewide network of more than 680 educators, fostering ongoing collaboration and mentorship beyond the fellowship year.
As part of the fellowship, DiNoto will complete an immersive summer externship with TCOM LP for her project, From the Surface to the Stratosphere.
DiNoto is a National Board Certified Teacher and was Manteo High School’s 2024-25 Teacher of the Year. She teaches Honors Chemistry, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1 and Physical Science, and serves as the science department learning leader, head cross country coach and head men’s tennis coach.
About the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership
The Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership is a statewide force for teacher leadership and growth in North Carolina. Founded in 2000 and based at the Kenan Institute for Engineering, Technology & Science at N.C. State University, the program invests in teachers through immersive industry experiences, professional development, and a strong, enduring community. Every investment returns to classrooms, schools and communities, advancing education and our communities’ future together.