NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Education announced tonight during the annual Excellence in Education celebration that Jenna Burke, a STEM teacher from Sycamore Elementary School, has been named the 2026-27 Teacher of the Year. Burke's selection marks the second consecutive year a Collierville Schools educator has earned Tennessee's highest teaching honor, following Collierville High School math teacher Dr. Brandi De La Cruz's recognition as the 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year. With Burke's selection, Collierville Schools becomes the first Tennessee school district in 50 years to produce back-to-back Tennessee Teachers of the Year.

Burke, who has been teaching at Sycamore Elementary since 2017, is known for her energetic, creative, and deeply intentional STEM classroom where students feel seen, challenged, empowered, and excited to learn. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to developing innovative instructional practices that empower students to think critically, persevere, and prepare for a future that has yet to be defined. In her time at the school, she has transformed learning into a dynamic, engaging, and hands-on experience for all students. Burke emphasizes the importance of creating classrooms where mistakes are not feared but valued, and she believes the most meaningful learning happens when students struggle, reflect, and try again. Through STEM education, Burke encourages students to develop curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a sense of responsibility.

"I'm honored to represent the incredible educators I work alongside every day," said Burke. "There are so many fantastic teachers in our district, which makes this recognition especially meaningful. I love working with the people at Sycamore Elementary and across Collierville Schools, and it has been an amazing opportunity to continue growing as an educator. I'm excited for the chance to keep learning, stay curious, and hopefully make an even bigger impact through this role."

"Jenna is the kind of teacher every student hopes to have," said Director of Schools Dr. Russell Dyer. "She genuinely loves working with children, believes deeply in their potential, and works incredibly hard to create meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for the future. Her innovative approach to teaching, combined with her unwavering dedication to her students and the profession, has made a lasting impact on countless children. We are proud to celebrate this recognition and grateful that she is representing Collierville Schools and the state of Tennessee."

Burke will represent Tennessee in the National Teacher of the Year competition and serve as an ambassador for education in the state throughout the 2026-27 school year.