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Dr. Brandi De La Cruz named TDOE Teacher of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 23, 2025
Collierville High School Teacher Named 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year
Collierville, TN – The Tennessee Department of Education announced yesterday, August 22, 2025 that Dr. Brandi De La Cruz, a math instructor at Collierville High School, has been named the 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year during the department’s Excellence in Education celebration.
Dr. De La Cruz is recognized for her commitment to student success, her innovative teaching methods, and her ability to make mathematics engaging, relevant, and accessible to all learners. Known for her deep sense of purpose and care in the classroom, she has not only elevated student achievement but has also inspired several of her students to pursue careers in education, particularly in the field of mathematics.
This achievement marks a historic milestone for Collierville Schools, as Dr. De La Cruz is the first teacher from the district to be named Tennessee Teacher of the Year.
“This incredible honor recognizes Dr. De La Cruz's outstanding dedication to her students, her passion for teaching, and her commitment to excellence in education. We are so proud that her hard work and impact are being celebrated at the state level,” said Roger Jones, Principal at Collierville High School.
“Dr. De La Cruz represents the very best of Collierville Schools and the teaching profession,” said Dr. Russell Dyer, Collierville Schools Director of Schools. “Her passion for students, her dedication to excellence, and her ability to inspire the next generation of educators is truly remarkable. We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved honor.”
The Tennessee Teacher of the Year program celebrates and honors outstanding educators across the state who demonstrate leadership, instructional excellence, and a commitment to student growth. As the 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year, Dr. De La Cruz will serve as an ambassador for educators and students statewide.
For more information about the Tennessee Teacher of the Year program, please visit the Tennessee Department of Education’s website at TN Department of Education.