Kingsport City Schools Educator Takes Top State Teaching Honor
In a prestigious ceremony held by the Tennessee Department of Education, Bryan Kerns, an esteemed educator from Kingsport City Schools, was named the 2024-25 Tennessee Teacher of the Year. Kerns, who has dedicated 18 years to teaching fire management and math at Dobyns-Bennett High School, is recognized for his compassion, dedication, and leadership within his school and community. One of his notable achievements includes spearheading the development of the Dobyns-Bennett Fire Program, which has successfully guided over 30 students towards careers in the fire and emergency services industry. Additionally, Kerns holds positions of influence as the President-elect of the Bays Mountain Park Association Board and the Southern Blue Ridge Fire Learning Network Landscape Lead for the Unaka and Great Smoky Mountains Escarpment.
Commissioner of Education, Lizzette Reynolds, expressed her excitement in welcoming Bryan Kerns as the Tennessee Teacher of the Year, emphasizing the importance of educators who go above and beyond to support and develop students for future success. Kerns will now represent Tennessee in the National Teacher of the Year competition and serve as an ambassador for education throughout the state for the upcoming school year. He follows in the footsteps of Missy Testerman, the 2023-24 Tennessee Teacher of the Year and 2024 National Teacher of the Year, who commended Kerns for his dedication to advancing the educational system in Tennessee.
During the event, the department also recognized finalists named Teacher of the Year for the three grand divisions of the state. Natalee Elkins, Kaity Castleman, and Jenny Kiesel were acknowledged as the grand division winners for East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee, and West Tennessee, respectively. Moreover, the department introduced the Novice Tennessee Teacher of the Year Award to celebrate and honor outstanding novice teachers across the state.
The Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents (TOSS) sponsored the event, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and appreciating the hard work and dedication of educators who inspire and guide students towards success. Gary Lilly, Executive Director of TOSS, praised the passion and commitment of teachers like Kerns, highlighting their essential role in the educational system.
To qualify for the Tennessee Teacher of the Year award, candidates must have a minimum of three years of full-time teaching experience, demonstrate exceptional gains in student learning, and exhibit effective leadership in both school and community settings. The selection process involved over 260 applications, with 27 regional semi-finalists and nine finalists ultimately chosen by a statewide selection committee. All nine finalists will also serve on the department’s Teacher Advisory Council for the 2024-25 school year, providing valuable feedback and insights to inform the department’s work.
In conclusion, Bryan Kerns’ recognition as the 2024-25 Tennessee Teacher of the Year highlights the dedication and excellence of educators in the state. His commitment to student success and innovative teaching practices serve as an inspiration to his colleagues and students alike. As he embarks on this new role, Kerns will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact on the educational landscape of Tennessee.
