Tennessee Announces 2026-27 Top Educator Awards

Teachers and Leaders Receive Statewide Recognition

NASHVILLE, TN-This evening at the annual Excellence in Education celebration, the Tennessee Department of Education announced the 2026-27 Teacher of the Year, Principal of the Year, and Supervisor of the Year, along with the 2026-27 Novice Teacher of the Year Honorees, the Aspiring Educator Award, and the two 2026-27 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) state finalists.

"Our students' success is made possible by education leaders who consistently demonstrate dedication, vision, and commitment to excellence," said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. "I am inspired by the outstanding leaders across Tennessee who work tirelessly to support students, empower educators, and strengthen their communities. Thank you for your leadership and service, and for always putting students first."

Jenna Burke, an educator from Collierville Schools, known for her energetic, creative, and deeply intentional STEM classroom where students feel seen, challenged, empowered, and excited to learn, was named the 2026-27 Tennessee Teacher of the Year. Burke has been teaching at Sycamore Elementary since 2017. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to developing innovative instructional practices that empower students to think critically, persevere, and prepare for a future that has yet to be defined. In her time at the school, she has transformed learning into a dynamic, engaging, and hands-on experience for all students. Burke emphasizes the importance of creating classrooms where mistakes are not feared but valued, and she believes the most meaningful learning happens when students struggle, reflect, and try again. Through STEM Education, Burke encourages students to develop curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a sense of responsibility.

The 2025-26 Teacher of the Year, Brandi De La Cruz, said, "Serving as Tennessee Teacher of the Year has been one of the greatest honors and most unforgettable experiences of my career. This past year gave me opportunities I never could have imagined-from Space Camp and touring Google to Washington Week-and, more importantly, it introduced me to an incredible group of educators who became lifelong friends and reminded me of the power of teachers coming together to learn, advocate, and celebrate one another. I am deeply grateful for every conversation, every new perspective, and every moment that made this year so meaningful. To Jenna Burke, congratulations! I hope this year brings you the same joy, growth, friendships, and unforgettable memories that it brought me."

Burke 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. 

All nine finalists will also serve on the department's Teacher Advisory Council for the duration of the 2026-27 school year. This council serves as a working group of expert teachers that provides feedback and informs the department's work throughout the school year. The department announced information regarding the nine 2026-27 finalists earlier in July.  

Heather Tinch, principal of Burks Elementary School in Putnam County Schools, was selected as the 2026-27 Tennessee Principal of the Year, representing Tennessee's eight CORE regions and the Shelby County-Municipals area.

Tinch's leadership is anchored in a relentless focus on teaching and learning. Every decision she makes is grounded in what is best for students. She also has an extraordinary ability to cultivate culture and community by creating an environment where students feel seen and valued, families feel genuinely connected, and staff feel supported and empowered.

"Congratulations to Heather Tinch, the 2026-27 Tennessee Principal of the Year! It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to represent Tennessee principals this past year. This experience has given me the opportunity to meet and learn from incredible school leaders across our state, and it has reminded me repeatedly of the passion, commitment, and heart that principals bring to their schools every day. I am thrilled to pass this honor to such a deserving leader and look forward to celebrating all she will accomplish in the year ahead," said Deanna Jones, the 2025-26 Tennessee Principal of the Year.

Elizabeth Kaylor, Elementary Supervisor at Bradley County Schools, was selected as the 2026-27 Tennessee Supervisor of the Year.

Kaylor is known for her ability to facilitate learning in an ever-changing educational landscape while continuing to embody the skill set of an effective educator, creating carefully designed and engaging training. Her instructional skill continues to propel Bradley County Schools to record-setting accomplishments.

Diana Woods, 2025-26 Tennessee Supervisor of the Year, said, "Congratulations to Elizabeth Kaylor! Passing the torch to you is an absolute honor! Being named Supervisor of the Year was such a special chapter for me, and seeing the heart, care, and dedication you bring to our Tennessee schools every day makes this moment even sweeter. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition-I'm cheering you on and wishing you the absolute best in the wonderful year ahead!"

During the celebration, the department also recognized finalists for the three Tennessee Grand Divisions for the three programs:

Kelly McElhiney, of Marion County High School in Marion County Schools, was named the East Grand Division Teacher of the Year. Amy Jackson, a teacher at Discovery School in Murfreesboro City Schools, was named the Middle Grand Division Teacher of the Year, and Tabatha DePriest of Halls Elementary School in Lauderdale County Schools was named the West Grand Division Teacher of the Year.

Principal Grand Division Winners include Lana Luttrell, principal at Tusculum View Elementary School in Greeneville City Schools from the East Grand Division. Fred Hewitt, principal of DuPont Tyler Middle School in Metro Nashville Public Schools, was named Middle Grand Division Principal of the Year. Rebecca Scott from the University of Memphis Campus School with University Schools-Memphis was named the West Grand Division winner.

Janice Cook, Executive Director of Whole Child & Family Supports in Knox County, was named the East Grand Division Supervisor of the Year. Frankie Skinner, Chief Academic Officer for Sumner County Schools, was named the Middle Grand Division winner. Melinda Hutcherson, Assistant Superintendent from Lauderdale County Schools, was named the West Grand Division winner.

The department also recognized awardees for other programs. The 2026-27 Aspiring Educator, Ashlyn Carter, of Roane County High School in Roane County Schools, received a scholarship from the Kids First Foundation. The 2026 Milken Educator, Holly Logan, from Westwood Elementary School in Manchester City Schools, was honored.

Additionally, tonight's event honored the 2026-27 Tennessee Novice Teacher of the Year awardees and RISE state finalists. The RISE state finalists will compete against finalists from across the country for the National RISE Award. Mandalyn Goins, a classroom associate at Antioch High School in Metro Nashville Public Schools, and Christina Leas, a food service supervisor in Newport City Schools, were named the 2026-27 Tennessee RISE Award state finalists.

To learn more information on the Tennessee Educator Recognition Programs.

For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, contact [email protected].   

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