Alter Ego: Dutch Fork High School Student Inspires and Entertains

For Immediate Release – July 28, 2016

Alter Ego: Dutch Fork High School Student Inspires and Entertains

IRMO- Giving back to the community has always been in Michael Templeton’s DNA. The rising senior at Dutch Fork High School (DFHS) capped off an incredible junior year with awards and honors he never thought could happen. All Michael Templeton ever wanted to do was make a difference in others’ lives. Not only has he done that, he’s made one in his own, too.

Templeton was inspired by his older sister Kathryn, who with the help of a friend while attending DFHS, created K 4 Kids, a non-profit that collects and distributes recyclable school supplies for children in need. Created in 2011, K 4 Kids has already distributed over 30,000 school supplies in South Carolina. Kathryn, now a rising junior at College of Charleston, has passed the torch to her brother who gladly accepted.

“Giving back has always been a passion of mine,” Michael said. “When you see the faces of students, teachers and parents light up, that’s what it’s about for me. Making people happy.”

By making those people happy, Templeton caught the eyes of many in his community. He was encouraged to apply for the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program, the largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer community service. Weeks went by and finally the phone rang. “They called and told me I would be receiving a medal,” Michael said. “I couldn’t believe it.” Templeton was selected as a “Distinguished Finalist” for his charity and received an engraved bronze medal. “I was shocked at how big it was,” Templeton said. “I felt like I was Michael Phelps.”

“The recipients of these awards demonstrate that young people are making remarkable contributions to the health and vitality of their communities,” chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial John Strangfeld said. “By recognizing them and placing a spotlight on their volunteer activities, we hope to motivate others to consider how they can also contribute to their community.”

Templeton’s passion for his community doesn’t stop there. Through his first three years at DFHS, he has served as “Foxy” the school’s mascot. From rallying his favorite sports teams to performing with the Foxes’ cheerleading squad, Templeton’s school spirit is impeccable. “Being the mascot is awesome because everyone loves a mascot,” Templeton said. “Foxy has had the opportunity to be a part of some really cool moments.”

One of those moments came last summer when Foxy was named a Universal Cheer Association (UCA) All-American mascot. Foxy’s performance earned a perfect score and a spot in the halftime show at the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl between Florida and Michigan. “To walk through that tunnel and perform in front of a sold out stadium was an experience I can’t put into words,” Templeton said. Next week, Foxy will attempt to become All-American for a second straight year.

Foxy has allowed Templeton to serve his community in a different light. Last spring, Foxy was the winner of the District Five Dance Marathon, Mascot Dance-off, beating out eight other mascots from businesses and other schools.  All the proceeds from that event went to Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital. “So many times Foxy helps lead the way to a charity event,” Templeton said. “It really is the best of both worlds because I get to serve the community in multiple ways.

Dutch Fork High School principal Dr. Gregory Owings was all smiles when asked about Templeton saying, “He is an outstanding representative for our school. What a wonderful young man Michael is. It has been an incredible year for him to be honored through his community service and as Foxy.”

The awards and honors have been great, but Templeton is just getting started. As he prepares for his senior year, Templeton and his sister plan to expand K 4 Kids. In addition to school supplies, they are now seeking items for teachers as well. For more information on how to help, visit