Collierville Schools is proud to share that Principal Mrs. Deanna Jones of Bailey Station Elementary School has been named a finalist for the 2025–26 Tennessee Principal of the Year by the Tennessee Department of Education. 

Mrs. Jones has dedicated 35 years to education, including 21 years at Bailey Station, where she helped open the school in 2005 and has served as principal since 2020.

The Tennessee Principal of the Year award is granted annually to a school leader for outstanding service in education and exceptional leadership that drives overall improvements in their school. To qualify, candidates must have a minimum of three years of experience as a principal and a minimum of five years of experience in Tennessee public schools. In addition, all nominees must have a proven track record of exceptional gains in student learning. 

In the coming weeks, winners for each Grand Division and the Tennessee Principal and Supervisor of the Year will be selected from this group and announced this fall. Finalists and award winners will be recognized during the annual banquet in December. To learn more about the Tennessee Principal of the Year and Supervisor of the Year Awards, visit the Educator Recognition webpage.