Dr. Brandi De La Cruz

Dr. Brandi De La Cruz teaches mathematics at Collierville High School in Collierville, Tennessee, and was named the 2025-26 Tennessee Teacher of the Year at the state Department of Education's Excellence in Education celebration. She is recognized for making math engaging, relevant, and accessible to all students, and for inspiring several of her students to pursue careers in mathematics education. Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds praised her, noting that she "understands how important a strong foundation in math is for our students, both in and beyond the classroom." As state Teacher of the Year, she serves as an education ambassador across Tennessee and represents the state in the National Teacher of the Year competition.