NASHVILLE— Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn announced the nine finalists for the 2019-20 Tennessee Principal of the Year today and included in the list of finalists is Henry Principal David Kibbler.
The finalists represent each Center of Regional Excellence (CORE) region in the state, with three finalists in each Grand Division (West, Middle and East). The winner will be announced Nov. 5.
“Strong leadership is vital to the success of our students,” Schwinn said. “I’ve traveled the state and have seen first-hand how leaders positively impact our students on a daily basis. These are the people who go above and beyond for our kids and educators. It is my pleasure to recognize and celebrate these dedicated leaders who support education across the state.”
The Tennessee Principal of the Year award is given annually to a school leader for outstanding service in education and exceptional leadership that drives overall improvements in his or her school. To qualify, candidates must have a minimum of three years’ experience as a principal and a minimum of five years’ experience in Tennessee public schools. In addition, all nominees must have a proven track record of exceptional gains in student learning.
The nine finalists for 2019-20 Principal of the Year are:
West Tennessee
CORE Region |
Principal |
School |
District |
Shelby/Municipals |
Anna Jones |
Arlington Elementary |
Arlington Municipal School District |
Southwest |
Varissa Richardson |
Munford Elementary School |
Tipton County |
Northwest |
David Kibbler |
Henry Elementary School |
Henry County |
Middle Tennessee
CORE Region |
Principal |
School |
District |
Mid Cumberland |
Jessica Harris |
Minglewood Elementary School |
Clarksville-Montgomery County |
South Central |
Julie Tidwell |
Mt. Pleasant Elementary |
Maury County |
Upper Cumberland |
Sara Cope |
BonDeCroft Elementary |
White County |
East Tennessee
CORE Region |
Principal |
School |
District |
Southeast |
LeAndrea Ware |
The Howard School |
Hamilton County |
East Tennessee |
Jenna Sharp |
Clinton Elementary School |
Clinton City Schools |
First Tennessee |
Jeff Kinsler |
Morristown-Hamblen High School West |
Hamblen County |
Each year an outstanding public school supervisor earns distinction as the Tennessee Supervisor of the Year. To qualify, candidates must demonstrate a record of implementing innovative programs and managing and motivating students and faculties. Additionally, the nominees must have a minimum of three years’ experience as a administrator and a minimum of five years’ experience in Tennessee public schools.
Winners for each Grand Division and the Tennessee Principal and Supervisor of the Year will be selected from this group and announced at a banquet on Nov. 5, during the department’s LEAD Conference in Nashville.