The Tennessee Department of Education has named the 2024-25 Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year, along with the two 2024-25 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) state finalists, a recent announcement said. ¶
“These individuals have played key roles in the success of their teachers and students, and I am proud to have them representing Tennessee,” Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds said in a public statement following the annual Excellence in Education celebration earlier this month. ¶
According to a news release from the department, Kelley Harrell, principal of John Adams Elementary School in Kingsport City Schools, was selected as the 2024-25 Tennessee Principal of the Year. The announcement said her work has helped “inspire educators to reach their highest potential,” through professional development and coaching. ¶
"Over the past year, it has been an honor to serve as Tennessee’s Principal of the Year, and I am excited for Principal Harrell to receive this well-deserved recognition," Tina Francis, 2023-24 Tennessee Principal of the Year, said in a public statement. "Due to her strong leadership and commitment to her students, teachers, and staff, this honor is a representation of her hard work and dedication to her school.” ¶
In addition, the announcement said Cathy Pressnell, coordinator of reading for grades 3-6 in Murfreesboro City Schools, was selected as the 2024-25 Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. The announcement described her as a “dedicated leader who encourages teacher development to ensure every student can successfully read and flourish in and outside of the classroom.” ¶
"This recognition is a testament to your hard work and your positive impact on education. We are proud to celebrate your achievements,” 2023-24 Supervisor of the Year Arlette Robinson said in a public statement congratulating Pressnell.¶
The department also recognized Principal and Supervisor finalists for the three Tennessee grand divisions, according to the announcement.¶
Christie Amburn, principal of Loudon Elementary School in Loudon County Schools, was named the East Grand Division Principal of the Year. Tera Brooks, principal of Prescott South Middle School in Putnam County Schools, was named the Middle Grand Division winner. Sharonda Rose, principal of Rivercrest Elementary School in Bartlett City Schools, was named the West Grand Division winner.¶
Dana Yost, director of federal projects and media supervisor in Bradley County Schools, was named the East Grand Division Supervisor of the Year. Mick Shuran, director of federal programs and instruction in Manchester City Schools, was named the Middle Grand Division winner. Leighann Horne, director of special education in McKenzie Special School District, was named the West Grand Division winner.¶
In addition, department officials announced the 2024-25 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) state finalists—Teresa Lawson, a parent liaison in Hamblen County Schools, and Tina McCracken, a secretary in Bradley County Schools—who will soon compete against state finalists from across the country for the National RISE Award. For more information on this year’s recognitions, visit www.tn.gov/education. ¶
