Kristin Burrus of STEM School Chattanooga is one of nine finalists for the Tennessee Teacher of the Year award. Burrus, who represents the state's Southeast Center of Regional Excellence, will be recognized with other nominees at a banquet later in the fall.
Nominations of up to three educators representing each of the three grade bands were accepted from the state's school districts, and the Tennessee Teacher of the Year and Grand Division winners will be selected after interview rounds with each finalist, according to a news release from the Tennessee Department of Education.
"I love what I do, and I feel like I'm the luckiest person on the planet to have this particular profession and this job," Burrus said in a YouTube video discussing her career in the Global Center for Digital Innovation for the STEM School at Chattanooga State. "I'm constantly amazed at what students can do, and they are always exceeding expectations."
The Global Center for Digital Innovation is a collaborative effort between Hamilton County Schools, Chattanooga State and STEM School, according to Burrus' profile on the STEM School website.
Burrus and all other finalists will also have the opportunity to serve on the Tennessee Teacher Advisory Council sponsored by state Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn to help provide feedback and information on educational happenings for the 2022-23 school year.
"Educators are the backbone of Tennessee schools and communities, and have continued to demonstrate their dedication, professionalism and unmatched passion to educating our students," Schwinn said in a statement. "I am proud to recognize these nine teachers who have gone above and beyond to ensure Tennessee students are set up for success."
- Compiled by Brandi Dixon