Press Release
A JMCSS communication for families & community stakeholders
District Level Teachers of the Year Announced for 2026-2027
One educator will advance to the regional level to represent JMCSS in December
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
JACKSON, Tenn. - Jackson-Madison County Schools is proud to recognize its 2026-27 District-Level Teachers of the Year, honoring three exceptional educators whose dedication and professionalism exemplify excellence in teaching.
The district-level honorees are DeShadrian Henson of Rose Hill School, representing grades PreK-4; Allison Creasy of Northeast Middle School, representing grades 5-8; and Latoria Hennings of JCM High School, representing grades 9-12.
One of the three educators will advance to the regional level, representing Jackson-Madison County Schools in the next phase of Tennessee's Teacher of the Year program.
Above photo: DeShadrian Henson shares details around the family connection that motivated her to pursue a career in education.
"Exceptional teaching changes lives, and these educators demonstrate that truth every day," said Chief Academic Officer Dr. Josie Currie. "Whether they're introducing foundational skills in elementary school, fostering creativity through the arts, or preparing students for advanced coursework, they create learning experiences that inspire growth and achievement."
Henson has spent 15 years in education and joined JMCSS in 2023. Inspired by her aunt, a Montessori teacher, she developed a passion for education and today focuses on incorporating STEM and technology into her classroom.
"Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions because every day is an opportunity to make a difference in a child's life," Henson said. "What many people don't see is that teaching goes far beyond academics. We are mentors, encouragers, problem-solvers, and advocates for our students."
Above photo: Allison Creasy provides insight into how she wants her students to remember their time in her classroom and at Northeast Middle.
Allison Creasy has dedicated all 13 years of her educational career to Northeast Middle School, where she serves as an art teacher and head coach for volleyball and girls' tennis.
"I want our community to recognize the time, dedication, patience, and heart that educators pour into their work each day," Creasy said. "Teaching is not simply a job; it is a commitment to investing in the lives of others."
A graduate of Jackson-Madison County Schools, Creasy credits three former art teachers with inspiring her own path into education: Clairenita Hamilton of Lincoln Elementary, Patricia Ayers of Rose Hill Middle School, and Belinda Patterson of Liberty Technology Magnet High School.
Above photo: Latorria Hennings says her son, Braylon, will always be one of the biggest reasons behind her passion for education.
Latorria Hennings began her educational career as a substitute teacher in 2011 before accepting a full-time teaching position in 2013. In her chemistry classroom, she intentionally creates opportunities for students to discover their potential through collaboration, problem-solving, and perseverance.
"I make it a point to recognize not only the correct answers, but also the effort, perseverance, and growth that happen along the way," Hennings said.
When reflecting on her career, Hennings told us something she hopes all of her students remember about their time in her class.
"I want them to remember that someone took the time to listen, encourage them, challenge them, and remind them of their worth. If my students leave my classroom believing in themselves a little more than they did when they entered, knowing they have a purpose and the ability to make a difference in the world, then I know I have made a lasting impact," said Ms. Henning.
The Teacher of the Year program recognizes outstanding educators across Tennessee. Each school selects a campus-level Teacher of the Year, and district representatives are chosen to compete within designated grade bands.
Superintendent Dr. Marlon King applauded the honorees for their commitment to students and families.
"Every successful graduate can point to educators who encouraged them, challenged them, and helped them believe in themselves," King said. "DeShadrian, Allison, and Latoria represent the excellence that exists across Jackson-Madison County Schools. We are proud to honor them for the impact they have on students, families, and their school communities."
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