Collierville Schools is proud to announce that Dr. Brandi De La Cruz, the Collierville High School Teacher of the Year, has been selected as one of nine finalists for the 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year award. The announcement was made today by the Tennessee Department of Education.

Representing the Shelby County-Municipal CORE region, Dr. De La Cruz joins a distinguished group of educators from across the state who exemplify excellence in teaching and leadership. Finalists were selected based on their instructional effectiveness, student achievement results, and contributions to their school communities.

The Tennessee Teacher of the Year and three Grand Division winners will be announced at the Excellence in Education Banquet in August. Finalists will also serve on the Tennessee Teacher Advisory Council during the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. The council is composed of expert teachers who engage with the department and other state agencies throughout the academic year.

To learn more about the Tennessee Teacher of the Year program, visit the TDOE website.