Nine teachers named finalists for teacher of the year

The Tennessee Department of Education announced the nine finalists for the 2023-24 Tennessee Teacher of the Year Award. The department plans to name the four winners in the fall including one teacher from each region of the state and an overall Teacher of the Year.In West Tennessee, the department named Stephanie Thomas of Lakeland Preparatory School, Marinda Hildenbrandt of South Haven Elementary, and Teresa Craig of Dyersburg Intermediate School as finalists.The department recognized Middle Tennessee finalists Sondra Wilson-Martin of Franklin Elementary School, Emily Fowler of Culleoka Unit School, and Margie Cavender of Prescott South Middle School as finalists.The East Tennessee finalists include Sandra Howard of Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts, Gerald Cox of Catlettsburg Elementary School, and Melissa Testerman of Rogersville Elementary School.“Across the state, our educators are working tirelessly to ensure every Tennessee student excels in both their classrooms and communities,” said Interim Tennessee Department of Education Commissioner Sam Pearcy. “They dedicate countless hours each day teaching, mentoring, inspiring, and motivating their students; they cultivate a love of learning and invest in their students’ academic and future success. I am honored to recognize these hard working and committed Tennessee educators.”The 2023-24 Tennessee Teacher of the Year and Grand Division winners will be announced at a ceremony after interviews are conducted with each finalist.All finalists have the opportunity to serve on the department’s Tennessee Teacher Advisory Council, which consists of expert teachers from throughout the state that work the department and other state agencies.“Teachers are an integral part of our society. They help to foster innovation, creativity, critical thinking, and leadership among our students,” said Dr. Melissa Collins, 2022-23 Tennessee Teacher of the Year, John P. Freeman Optional School, Memphis-Shelby County Schools. “As a Tennessee teacher, I am proud to work alongside remarkable educators who help nurture Tennessee students. Congratulations to the regional finalists! The state of Tennessee is proud of you!”