Chattanooga Pre-K Teacher Surprised with Statewide Award

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.(WDEF) – Pre-K teacher Tyroneshia Jordan walked into her classroom at the Children’s Academy for Education and Learning expecting a normal day—but instead, she was greeted with cheers, balloons, and a grand surprise.

Jordan was presented with the Tennessee Early Educator Award, given by Tennesseans for Quality Early Education (TQEE). The award honors teachers who go above and beyond in shaping the futures of Tennessee’s youngest learners.

Jordan says the recognition is shared with countless other educators who give their all every day.

“There’s a lot of teachers out there who deserve it,” Jordan said. “I think a lot of teachers deserve it because we do put in a lot of hard work.”

This is only the second year for the statewide awards program, which spotlights ten outstanding early educators across Tennessee. Leaders say the honor is about more than recognition—it’s about showing the critical role these teachers play in shaping children’s futures.

Jenny White with TQEE says the award also helps elevate the profession.
“Those little guys can be real rough sometimes—it’s not an easy job. And unfortunately, early educators don’t always get the credit they’re due. We’re trying to elevate it as a profession, as a great opportunity to walk into. We want to find quality people who love children, love teaching, and understand how important literacy, math, and social-emotional skills are in those early years. They’re the building blocks for being a lifelong learner.”