June 11, 2024
Rutherford County Schools
Congratulations to Smyrna Middle School teacher Ellie Lee for being named a finalist for Tennessee Teacher of the Year.
The Tennessee Department of Education announced finalists today.
You can check out our profile of Ms. Lee: https://www.rcschools.net/apps/news/article/1914062
Lee has been invited to celebration event in August, where the overall winner will be named.
Nominations of up to three educators representing each of the three grade bands were accepted from the state’s school districts. The Tennessee Teacher of the Year and Grand Division winners will be selected after the conclusion of the interview process.
The Tennessee Teacher of the Year Finalists will have the opportunity to serve on the department’s Tennessee Teacher Advisory Council for the duration of the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years. The council is composed of expert teachers who engage with the department and other state agencies throughout the academic year.
The 2024-25 Tennessee Teacher of the Year will represent Tennessee in the National Teacher of the Year competition and serve as an ambassador for education in the state throughout the 2024-25 school year. To qualify, candidates must have been teaching full-time for at least three years, have a track record of exceptional gains in student learning, and be effective school and community leaders.