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2025 TN Early Educator Awards

Announcing the 2025 Tennessee Early Educator Awards!

Hundreds of amazing early educators across Tennessee were nominated this year! We are excited to champion these Tennessee Educators!

Eligibility

To be eligible for the award, an early educator must:

  • Be currently employed full-time in Tennessee, caring for and teaching children:
    • Within the birth through preschool age range in a regulated center, family child care home, or school-based program
    • OR within grades K-3 at a state-accredited public or charter school
  • Have been an early childhood educator for three or more years
  • Demonstrate a passion for teaching, love of children, and respectful engagement with parents and families.

Awards and Prizes!

The awards will recognize 10 outstanding early educators across the state, with 5 awards in Birth through Preschool; and 5 awards in Kindergarten through 3rd Grade.

All 10 awardees will receive a $1,000 cash prize, a shopping spree at Lakeshore Learning, and an all expenses paid trip to Nashville.

Award announcements will be made in early fall.

Nominations

Nominations are currently closed.

All nominees will be invited to complete an application. An email with a link to the application will be sent to all qualified nominees on or about June 9. Winners will be selected based on scoring from our panel of early childhood education experts, interviews, and references.

Awards Sponsors

We are grateful for our sponsors for making these awards possible.

2025 Winners!

Shelby Belcher

Shelby Belcher

Sam Houston Elementary School
1st
Maryville, TN.

The thing that brings me the most joy in teaching is the fact that I get to be that adult in a child’s life who shows up for them. There is a famous quote, “Students who are loved at home come to school to learn, and students who aren’t, come to school to be loved.” Starting with the very first day I meet my students, I tell them that they are in my class for a reason, we are supposed to be in each other’s life, and they are loved. My favorite moments are the smiles after I brush and braid hair that hasn’t been taken care of that morning or when a kiddo wants to match outfits with me and is nervously walking down the hallway …until they see me standing at my classroom door matching with them. I love seeing their faces when I bring them the gift they have been talking about in class to their birthday party. I love the random inside jokes our classroom inevitably has every single year. I love when my student is playing a sport and they hear me cheer the LOUDEST! The smiles and light on these babies’ faces when you just show up for them cannot be replaced. There is just nothing like it. I am reminded of a specific example from my first year of teaching, which was in fifth grade (I taught fifth grade for one year, second grade for one year, and I am entering my third year of teaching first grade.) There was a student in first grade who just really bonded with me, even though I was not his teacher. Knowing he came from not an ideal background, I went out of my way to make sure that this student just felt loved and seen. I would give him high fives, tell him good morning, and hold hands with him to walk him to class. While on bus duty, I would load him on the bus and he would cry wanting to go home with me – of course that made me cry too. This precious boy one day decided to run out from his classroom down into my classroom! In the middle of teaching my math lesson to my fifth graders, I looked up and saw my little buddy just standing there! Obviously he did this needing a break and seeking love and attention from a trusted adult, so I contacted my principal asking if he could just spend some time in my room and then I would walk him back to his classroom. After getting her approval, he was all smiles, hugging, and then pretending to complete fifth grade work when this kiddo was still working on number identification to 10. Just the thought of this baby needing a safe space, and that safe space being MY classroom makes my heart sing with joy. I still think about that precious kiddo.   Every student needs a champion, but these students are my champions just the same.
Crystal Catron

Crystal Catron

CAS/Morgan County Head Start
Pre-K, 4-5 year olds
Wartburg, TN

My journey into education began in 2002, teaching at a local childcare center while pursuing a degree in a different field. Though my initial focus was elsewhere, I consistently found that the path to education was the only one without obstacles. Recognizing this as my true calling, I changed direction to pursue my mission in early childhood education. For the last 15 years, I have been a devoted teacher at  CAS/Morgan County Head Start, shaping the minds and hearts of 3 to 5-year-olds. My career is a testament to trusting your intuition and finding purpose in the most fulfilling work. I love each student as if they were my own. So I celebrate every milestone they accomplish while they are with me and those of the future. To watch each student grow during the year brings joy to my heart and sadness too. Because my job is finished and I give them to someone new. I hope that the new teacher understands each student for who they are. After they leave me, it’s rewarding to meet them out in a public place and be told “I wish I was in your class again” or hugged tight out of the blue.  Since I have been in this occupation for 24 years I have seen those precious students become adults and make something of themselves. I will continue to celebrate the growth of my students for years to come or as long as I am able. Their growth gives me joy, no matter how big or small it was, it was still growth and worth celebrating.
Tyroneshia Jordan

Tyroneshia Jordan

Children’s Academy of Education and Learning
1 year old class
Chattanooga, TN

What brings me the most joy in teaching is witnessing a child’s growth—especially when they overcome a challenge or reach a developmental milestone that once seemed difficult. Being part of that journey and knowing I helped create an environment where a child feels safe, loved, and confident enough to succeed is incredibly fulfilling.    One of the most joyful moments I experienced was with a child in my class who was very quiet and rarely spoke during group activities. At the beginning of the year, she would only whisper or communicate through gestures. I consistently used gentle encouragement, interactive read-alouds, songs, and small group play to build her confidence and give her opportunities to express herself without pressure.    After several months of building trust and providing supportive interactions, we were doing a circle time activity where each child shared their favorite animal. To my surprise, she raised her hand and clearly said, “My favorite animal is a giraffe because it has a long neck.” The entire class clapped for her, and she smiled proudly. It was such a powerful moment—not just because she spoke, but because she wanted to be heard.    That moment reminded me why I do what I do. The joy of teaching comes from those little victories that are truly big milestones in a child’s development. Seeing children flourish, knowing I had a hand in nurturing their growth, gives me purpose and happiness every day.
Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor

Oak Grove Elementary
Kindergarten
Lewisburg, TN

My name is Elizabeth Taylor, and I am a fourth-year Kindergarten teacher at Oak Grove Elementary School. Early education is my passion because I have the privilege of helping lay the educational foundation for our youngest learners. Being a teacher is one of the greatest joys and privileges of my life thus far. I not only get to teach but I get to model a kinder and more inclusive world. I get to create experiences- those BEST DAY EVER experiences- for children. I get invited to birthday parties, ball games, dance recitals, etc., and I get a front-row seat to witness the magic and greatness unfold within each child. These things bring my heart SO much joy.Truly, being a teacher just brings me SO much joy- a joy that sometimes surpasses words, but if I am only able to elaborate on one thing that brings me joy, I would choose that I am able to teach children how to read. I get to teach these tiny humans that say, “I don’t know . . .  I can’t read!” how to read. What a privilege, and what a joy! I get to witness children that know no sounds start to read sound by sound and then, eventually, read with fluency. I get to help children unlock this gift that no one’s able to take away- the gift of reading. SO many things bring me joy, but this joy is very special because not every person, not every teacher gets to teach a child how to read. I get to; I get to teach children how to read and because of that, I am filled with joy!
Jennifer Comparette

Jennifer Comparette

Foundations Academy
Pre-K, 3-5 year olds
Clarksville, TN

Now in my 12th year of teaching, I spent a decade teaching kindergarten in the public school system before taking a leap of faith to open Foundations Academy of Clarksville alongside my academic coach. This is my second year as a preschool teacher, and it has been incredibly rewarding to build a school where we can truly do what’s best for students.

What has given me the most joy in teaching is seeing the incredible growth my preschoolers have made since opening Foundations Academy of Clarksville. Starting this school has been such a meaningful journey, and it’s been amazing to create a learning environment that truly reflects what I know works best for young children.    One of the biggest joys has been watching my students thrive in our small class sizes. With fewer students, I’ve been able to give each child the individual attention they need and really tailor my teaching to meet them where they are. I’ve had the chance to use everything I’ve learned over the years to build strong foundations in language, literacy, and social-emotional development. The results have been so rewarding.    I’m especially proud that many of our students are graduating to kindergarten already reading. That early confidence in reading opens so many doors for them, and knowing I’ve had a hand in setting them up for success is such a wonderful feeling. Seeing their excitement when they realize they can read a book or recognize words in the world around them is the kind of joy that makes this work so special. It reminds me every day why I love being a preschool teacher.

I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I was young, and I love helping students discover a joy for learning. Being part of their educational, social, and emotional foundation is truly something special. At Foundations, we spend our days learning through hands-on play—because every day is an adventure in discovery and growth.
Brandie Roberts

Brandie Roberts

Martin Primary
Pre-K, 3-5 year olds
Martin, TN

My name is Brandie Roberts. Along with being a wife and mom of three, I’m one of the Pre-K Educational Assistants at Martin Primary School. My journey as an early childhood educator began in high school as an employee in an after school program.  I have traveled this path of working with children for over nineteen years going from a daycare setting to subbing in the school system to finally landing in a classroom for three to five year olds with an outstanding lead teacher.  My role as an early childhood educator is not my job; it is my passion because seeing kids grow socially, emotionally, along with gaining knowledge of themselves and academic ideas makes my heart happy.  My reason for my chosen profession is simple, children and families need to have support, love, and connections at the very early stages in childhood.
Maria Esmarelda Martinez

Maria Esmarelda Martinez

Compass Community School
Kindergarten
Memphis, TN

I have been teaching for 35 years, both in Mexico and the United States. I currently teach Kindergarten at Compass Community School Hickory Hill. Teaching is in my blood. I come from a family of educators, and I truly enjoy it. It’s my passion, second only to my family. To be a teacher, I believe you need passion: passion for children, passion for learning, and passion for the craft of teaching itself. Without it, it’s hard to give this work the heart, time, and effort it deserves. Teaching is not just a job…it’s a calling.
I also believe children are the promise of a better world. They have been my greatest inspiration. Their curiosity and the joy they show when mastering a new skill are what keep me going. That joy pushes me to keep learning and teaching.
Christa Myers

Christa Myers

Edgemont Elementary
Kindergarten
Newport, TN

Hello! I am Christa Myers. This is my fourth year teaching kindergarten at Edgemont Elementary school in Newport, TN! I was drawn to Early childhood education because I want to instill a love for learning in young children. I want each student to be excited to come to school and have fun while learning!

The thing that has given me the most joy in teaching has been the relationships you build with the students. It crazy to think how much you get to learn about the students in your classroom. They come in knowing so little. They do not know what a line is, how to hold a pencil, how to write their name, and when they leave you, they know all that and so much more. You learn about their favorite snacks, their favorite movie, what they like to do after school, etc. Unfortunately, several of my students have a hard life outside of school. They live with grandparents or other relatives, they go home and may not have food, their parents are fighting, etc. I work in a title one school and most of our students do not have ideal living conditions.   I was one of those students when I was younger, I am even attending the same school I now teach at. I had teachers that made me feel safe and looked out for me. I pray that I can do the same for my students. I pray that I make a difference in their lives. That makes them feel heard, safe, and loved. I make sure I tell every one of my students I love them every day before they leave me because they may not hear it again the rest of the day. I strive to be a role model to my students and let them know that no matter what I am here for them. I am their teacher, but I am also their safe place.   I had a student my first-year of teaching who was a very anxious child. Her family was good, but they did not have a ton of money. They lived in a camper close to the school. They always made sure I knew how much they appreciated me. Sweet notes, gifts, etc. They brought me gifts even two years after She was in my class. The little girl eventually went to homeschool. I have her sisters come to my classroom every year to job shadow, they are in high school now. I ran into her mom one day and she stopped me and was crying and telling me what a difference I made to her daughter and how she still talks about me. She told me if they ever win the lottery, they want to hire me to be her forever teacher and were so thankful I was her kindergarten teacher. I love that sweet girl so much.     The parents that show their appreciation mean so much to me. Starting school is scary when you’re five but it is also scary for the parents to trust someone with their child’s mind and heart. I am blessed for parents who share their appreciation, and I am blessed for the relationships I build with my students that last years outside the classroom.
Donna Ricker

Donna Ricker

Camp Creek
Pre-K, 3-5 year olds
Greeneville, TN

My name is Donna Ricker, I am married to Chris Ricker and have 2 sons and one daughter-in-law .  and one granddaughter. I work at Camp Creek Elementary School as a pre-k assistant. I have taught children for 17 years. When I was younger I babysit for my younger cousins and neighbors and have always had a love for young children and watching them grow and learn.  I plan to continue working with young children as long as I am able.

The most joy I have experienced in the classroom is just through experiencing the phenomenal growth that our students achieve. it is absolutely amazing that students can enter our classroom without being able to speak, and can leave us speaking in full sentences, knowing all letters and sounds, and even reading. Last year, a student came into our classroom at four years old and was considered to developmentally be on a 14 month level. This child was unable to speak and unable to communicate with teachers and peers. She became my buddy. Everyday, I would sit with her and work one-on-one with her. By December, she was beginning to say some words. The lead teacher and I wanted to build a special and strong relationship with her and her family. We would meet her after school with her mom and would spend time just talking, playing and interacting with her. By March she was speaking in complete sentences and was beginning to recognize letters. I continued to work with her daily one-on-one and continued to forge the relationship, and by May, not only was she on target and on grade level, she was also beginning to recognize sight words.     This little girl has a most special place in my heart. She comes to see me daily, and gives me the biggest hug, and waits for me each day to walk her to her car and she gives me the biggest hug. Her sweet, beautiful, pure soul continues to touch and warm my heart, and she brought me so much joy, and reminded me why I do what I do. Teaching young children is truly the best job in the entire world.
Carlos Calderon

Carlos Calderon

Aventura Community School
STEM
Nashville, TN.

What has given me the most joy in teaching is witnessing the moment when students fully engage with a hands-on STEM project and realize their own potential to solve problems, create, and learn through doing. As a STEM teacher, I constantly see students light up when they connect what they’re learning to real-world situations.    One specific example was during a third-grade unit on engineering and design. Students were challenged to build simple bridges using only popsicle sticks, string, and glue. One student who usually struggled with focus and confidence led his group to create a bridge that held the most weight in the class. When he saw the result, his face lit up with pride. He said, “I didn’t know I was good at this!” That moment of discovery and self-belief brought me immense joy—it reminded me why I teach. It’s those real, joyful breakthroughs that make every challenge worth it.

Class of 2024

We are so proud of our Tennessee Early Educator Awards class of 2024!

Our 20 awardees stood out among 1700+ nomininations and 300+ applications from across the Volunteer State.

We salute their passion and dedication to the field and were delighted to recognize and honor them.

Learn more about the 2024 awardees.

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