The Tennessee Department of Education announced the finalists for this year’s Tennessee Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year awards. In a news release the department said the finalists include three members from each of the state’s Grand Divisions.This year’s Principal of the Year finalists include:¶
- Sharonda Rose, Rivercrest Elementary School in the Bartlett City Schools district.
- Alisha Erickson, Poplar Grove Elementary School in the Franklin Special School District.
- Tera Brooks, Prescott South Middle School in the Putnam County Schools district.
- Christi Amburn, Loudon Elementary School in the Loudon County Schools district.
- Shelley Gough, Drummonds Elementary School in the Tipton County Schools district.
- Carmen Hayes, Southside Elementary School in the Giles County Schools district.
- Kirk Campbell, Charleston Elementary STEAM Academy in the Bradley County Schools district.
- Kelley Harrell, John Adams Elementary School in the Kingsport City Schools district.
“I am thrilled to honor these individuals as finalists for the Tennessee Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year awards,” said Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds, “Your exceptional hard work, dedication, and leadership does not go unnoticed, and I am proud that Tennessee has so many principals and district supervisors that are committed to student success.”¶
The state awards the Principal of the Year annually to a school leader who’s shown outstanding service in education and exceptional leadership that drives overall improvements. 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.¶
"Congratulations to the exceptional finalists for Tennessee Principal of the Year! Your dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to fostering a positive educational environment have not gone unnoticed,” said 2023-24 Tennessee Principal of the Year Tina Francis-Hodges. “Each of you has demonstrated remarkable resilience, innovation, and an inspiring ability to lead your schools through triumphs and challenges. This recognition is a testament to your hard work and the significant impact you have on your students, staff, and communities.”¶
The state also names one district supervisor who demonstrates a record of implementing innovative programs and managing and motivating students and staff as the Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. This year’s finalists include:¶
- Allison Clark, Arlington Community Schools.
- Cathy Pressnell, Murfreesboro City Schools.
- Dana Yost, Bradley County Schools.
- Brian Norton, Tipton County Schools.
- Mick Shuran, Manchester City Schools.
- Meagan England, Claiborne County Schools.
- Leighann Horne, McKenzie Special School District.
- Leslie Eldridge, Cumberland County Schools.
- Myra Newman, Elizabethton City Schools.
“Congratulations to each of the Tennessee Supervisor of the Year Finalists! This distinction commends your dedication and unwavering pursuit of educational excellence,” said 2023-24 Tennessee Supervisor of the Year Arlette Robinson. “As you are recognized for your leadership, take this moment to showcase your great work and passion for quality education, and shine. May you be honored and celebrated for your unique gifts, talents, resources, and support you bring to your district and community.”¶
Each Principal and Supervisor of the Year finalist will meet with a panel of interviewers in the coming weeks made up of department staff and other education leaders. The department plans to name the winners for each Grand Division and the overall winners this fall. ¶
