Nine Educators Named Finalists for 2025–26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year

The Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) has announced the nine finalists for the 2025–26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year award. The annual recognition highlights educators across the state for their contributions to teaching, leadership, and student learning outcomes.

The department selected finalists from a pool of nominees representing districts across Tennessee. According to a news release sent to the Tennessee Firefly, the department evaluated each finalist on criteria such as instructional practice, school and community engagement, and professional development efforts.

The finalists represent all eight of Tennessee’s Centers of Regional Excellence (CORE) regions, as well as the Shelby County-Municipal area.

Next Steps in the Selection Process

The Department of Education will announce the three Grand Division winners—representing East, Middle, and West Tennessee in August at the annual Excellence in Education Banquet along with the 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year.

That educator will succeed last year’s Teacher of the Year, Kingsport City Schools educator Bryan Kerns. Tennessee’s Teacher of the Year winner will additionally represent the state in the National Teacher of the Year competition.

Rogersville City Schools English as a second language (ESL) teacher, Missy Testerman, won the national competition in 2024.

Learn More About the Finalists

For in-depth features on the finalists—including their teaching practices and perspectives—visit The Tennessee Firefly’s ongoing “Meet the Finalists” spotlight series.

This year’s finalists come from a variety of school settings across the state, reflecting a broad range of experiences and approaches to classroom instruction.