The Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) yesterday announced the finalists for the 2025–26 Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year honors, recognizing school and district leadership across West, Middle, and East Grand Divisions.¶
“I am thrilled to recognize each of this year’s Tennessee Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year finalists,” said Commissioner of Education Lizzette Reynolds. “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.”¶
Statewide Leaders, Local Impact¶
The Tennessee Principal of the Year award spotlights school leaders who demonstrate outstanding service, transformational leadership, and measurable improvement in student achievement. Candidate eligibility requires at least three years as a principal and five years in Tennessee public schools, along with evidence of exceptional student learning gains.¶
This year’s principal finalists represent broad geographic diversity, with three finalists from each Grand Division: West, Middle, and East.¶
Kelley Harrell, the 2024–25 Tennessee Principal of the Year, congratulated this year’s 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,” Harrell said. “They are problem-solvers, community-builders, and tireless advocates for equity and opportunity.”¶
Similarly, the Tennessee Supervisor of the Year award recognizes district-level administrators who implement innovative programs, motivate staff, and lead systemic improvements. Nominees must have held at least three years as an administrator and five years of service in Tennessee public schools.¶
Cathy Pressnell, the 2024–25 Supervisor of the Year, offered her congratulations to the finalists.¶
“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,” Pressnell said. “Finalists and award winners will be recognized during the annual banquet in December.”¶
What Happens Next¶
In the coming weeks, the department will select winners for each Grand Division and the overall Tennessee Principal and Supervisor of the Year from the finalist ranks. The winners will be revealed in the fall, and recognition will take place at the annual banquet in December.¶
For more on the nomination criteria, selection process, and past winners, see TDOE’s Principal and Supervisor recognition pages. (The Principal of the Year page includes eligibility and timeline details.)¶
