October 16, 2025 in Regional, Top Stories

TENN. DEPT. OF EDUCATION ANNOUNCES PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

NASHVILLE, TN— Today, the Tennessee Department of Education announced the finalists for the 2025-26 Tennessee Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year awards. The finalists represent education leaders from across the state, with three finalists in each Grand Division: West, Middle, and East.

“I am thrilled to recognize each of this year’s Tennessee Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year finalists,” said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. “Tennessee is filled with remarkable principals and district supervisors all over the state, and this award is a testament to these leaders’ approach and dedication to supporting their students and school communities.”

The Tennessee Principal of the Year award is granted annually to a school leader for outstanding service in education and exceptional leadership that drives overall improvements in their school. To qualify, candidates must have a minimum of three years of experience as a principal and a minimum of five years of experience in Tennessee public schools. In addition, all nominees must have a proven track record of exceptional gains in student learning.

“I am honored to extend my congratulations to this year’s Tennessee Principal of the Year Finalists. These exceptional school leaders represent the best of what it means to lead with purpose, inspire excellence, and build thriving school communities across our great state,” said Kelley Harrell, 2024-25 Tennessee Principal of the Year. “Each of these leaders brings a unique vision to the principalship, but what unites them is a shared belief in the power of education to transform lives. They are problem-solvers, community-builders, and tireless advocates for equity and opportunity. I celebrate your accomplishments and cheer you on as you carry this torch forward.”

Each year, an outstanding district supervisor is recognized as the Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. To qualify, candidates must demonstrate a record of implementing innovative programs and managing and motivating students and staff. Additionally, the nominees must have a minimum of three years of experience as an administrator and a minimum of five years of experience in Tennessee public schools.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year’s Tennessee Superintendent of the Year Finalists,” said Cathy Pressnell, 2024-25 Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. “This is an honor that represents years of hard work, focused leadership, and an unwavering commitment to all that’s best about public education in Tennessee. During the past year, it’s been a privilege to honor, lift up, and help recognize examples of exceptional educational leadership across our state that may often go unnoticed. I’m grateful to the department for spotlighting the contributions of district leaders in this way. To all of the finalists, congratulations! We are all better because of you.”

In the coming weeks, winners for each Grand Division and the Tennessee Principal and Supervisor of the Year will be selected from this group and announced this fall. Finalists and award winners will be recognized during the annual banquet in December.

To learn more about the Tennessee Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year Awards, visit the Educator Recognition webpage.

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

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