TDOE Announces 2026-27 Tennessee Teacher, Principal, and Supervisor of the Year Finalists
Finalists Advance to Top Statewide Recognition
Nashville, TN—Today, the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) announced the finalists for the 2026-27 Tennessee Teacher of the Year, Tennessee Principal of the Year, and Tennessee Supervisor of the Year awards.
The finalists represent each of the eight Center of Regional Excellence (CORE) areas in the state, as well as the Shelby County Municipal area. The 2026-27 Tennessee Teacher, Principal, and Supervisor of the Year, along with three winners for each grand division in each program, will be selected from this group and announced at TDOE’s annual Tennessee Excellence in Education Banquet this fall.
“Tennessee educators and leaders dedicate countless hours each day to teaching, inspiring, and empowering students,” said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. “Their dedication extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future of our communities and our state. It is an honor to recognize and celebrate these exceptional educators whose hard work, passion, and commitment make a lasting difference in the lives of Tennessee’s students across the state.”
"Tennessee is home to some of the nation's most outstanding educators, and each of the finalists represents the very best of our profession,” said Brandi De La Cruz, 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year. "Serving as the 2025-2026 Tennessee Teacher of the Year has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and has given me the opportunity to visit schools across our state, learn from incredible educators, and advocate for students and teachers at every level.”
Tennessee Teacher of the Year finalists will have the opportunity to serve on the department’s Tennessee Teacher Advisory Council for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years. The council is composed of expert teachers who engage with the department and other state agencies throughout the academic year.
“Being named a Supervisor of the Year finalist is a true testament to your dedication, vision, and the profound impact you have on your schools and communities every day. Leading in education requires both courage and a deep love for our students and staff," said Diana Wood, 2025-26 Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. “I am incredibly proud to stand alongside you as colleagues, and I cannot wait to see how your leadership continues to shape the future of education in Tennessee.”
The Tennessee Teacher of the Year awardee will represent Tennessee in the National Teacher of the Year competition and serve as an ambassador for education in the state throughout the 2026-27 school year. To qualify, candidates must have taught full-time for at least three years, have a track record of exceptional gains in student learning, and be effective school and community leaders.
The selection process began with nominations submitted by a committee of up to three educators from each grade band representing school districts across Tennessee. Following interviews, nominees were narrowed to semifinalists, and then to finalists through additional interview rounds. The Tennessee Teacher of the Year, Principal of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, and Grand Division winners will be selected after final interviews with each finalist.
Deanna Jones, 2025-26 Tennessee Principal of the Year, said, "Going through the application process allows you to reflect on your practices and realize how much you do each day for your community. I am so proud to stand beside our educators and celebrate the difference they're making each day!"
The selection committee is comprised of a panel of education leaders. All awardees for Tennessee Teacher, Principal, and Supervisor of the Year will be selected from these finalists and announced this fall at the annual Excellence in Education Event.
Learn more about the Tennessee Educator Recognition Programs.
For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, email Edu.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.
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