Sycamore Elementary Educator Named Tennessee Teacher of Year
The state honor recognizes a STEM teacher who has fostered hands-on problem-solving skills since 2017.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The Tennessee Department of Education has selected Jenna Burke as the 2026-27 Tennessee Teacher of the Year. Burke, who teaches at Sycamore Elementary in Collierville, has been recognized for her innovative work in the classroom.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the impact of dedicated STEM educators on student development through hands-on learning. It brings attention to the instructional practices that schools across the state may look to emulate for improved problem-solving outcomes.
Jenna Burke has served at Sycamore Elementary since 2017. Regional awards were also presented to Tabatha DePriest, Rebecca Scott, and Melinda Hutcherson.
The players
Jenna Burke
A STEM teacher at Sycamore Elementary who was named the 2026-27 Tennessee Teacher of the Year.
Tennessee Department of Education
The state agency responsible for overseeing public schools and honoring educator excellence.
Tabatha DePriest
An educator honored as the West Grand Division Teacher of the Year.
Rebecca Scott
An educator recognized as the West Grand Division Principal of the Year.
Melinda Hutcherson
An educator named the West Grand Division Supervisor of the Year.
The details
Burke integrates innovative instructional practices within her STEM classroom to engage students. Her teaching style emphasizes hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to develop critical problem-solving capabilities.
Timeline
Jenna Burke began her tenure at Sycamore Elementary in 2017.
The teaching honor applies to the 2026-27 academic year.
The Home Front
State departments of education frequently utilize these awards to identify high-performing instructional models. The recognition serves as a marker of the current focus on STEM-integrated learning environments within state schools.
Families with students at Sycamore Elementary or in the Collierville area can look for information from their local school regarding upcoming STEM activities. Parents should keep an eye on school newsletters to learn how these innovative classroom practices might be applied at home.
The takeaway
The selection of a STEM educator as Teacher of the Year signals a broader educational priority on hands-on, problem-solving skills. Families interested in similar opportunities can inquire with their local district about STEM curricula and enrichment programs currently in place.
Further reading
For more on academic programs and educator recognition, visit the Secondary Education page.
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