Bristol, Tennessee, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Annette Tudor has been honored as the 2026 Tennessee Superintendent of the Year by the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents. Recognized for her exceptional leadership at Bristol Tennessee City Schools (BTCS) since 2020, Tudor aims to introduce a therapy dog initiative to support student well-being. Under her leadership, BTCS has achieved outstanding academic performance, with several schools designated as Reward Schools. Additionally, a decision regarding property ownership by the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education has been postponed pending further information.
Bristol, Tennessee – Annette Tudor has been honored as the 2026 Tennessee Superintendent of the Year by the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents. This prestigious award was given during an annual banquet held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where Tudor was recognized for her exceptional leadership and contributions.
Tudor was chosen for this accolade by a select group of eight superintendents from various regions of Tennessee. She has been the superintendent of Bristol Tennessee City Schools (BTCS) since 2020 and has a rich background in education, having previously worked as a special education teacher, assistant principal, and curriculum supervisor.
As part of this recognition, Tudor will move forward as one of eight finalists competing for the overall title of Tennessee Superintendent of the Year. This designation not only highlights her individual contributions but also emphasizes the performance and achievements of BTCS under her leadership.
BTCS stands out as one of only 11 school districts in Tennessee to achieve all A and B grades in the newly implemented school letter grade rating system. In this evaluation, six schools within BTCS secured an A grade: Avoca Elementary, Haynesfield Elementary, Holston View Elementary, Tennessee Middle, Tennessee High, and Tennessee Online Public School. Additionally, two schools, Anderson Elementary and Fairmount Elementary, received a B grade.
Four schools in the district, specifically Avoca Elementary, Haynesfield Elementary, Tennessee Middle, and Tennessee Online Public School, have been designated as Reward Schools. This title is awarded for outstanding growth and achievement and represents the highest honor a school can achieve in Tennessee.
Beyond academic achievements, Tudor has ambitious plans to enhance student well-being in the district by introducing a therapy dog named “Dolly.” The initiative aims for each school in BTCS to have a therapy dog to support the emotional health of students.
In a meeting regarding property management, the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education postponed a decision concerning the acceptance of ownership of property located on Melrose Street from the city. The offer, made by the City Council, designated the property as surplus and stated that it could be transferred to the school system at no cost. However, the Board requires more information before proceeding, particularly concerning potential flood zone issues and the costs tied to renovating the property. The deadline for accepting the transfer is August 29.
This recognition of Tudor and the academic achievements of BTCS highlights the dedication of educators and the commitment to providing quality education for students. As the district continues to foster growth and positively impact the community, it also engages in strategic planning for its facilities and resources to ensure ongoing success.
FAQ
Who is Annette Tudor?
Annette Tudor is the superintendent of Bristol Tennessee City Schools and was recognized as the 2026 Tennessee Superintendent of the Year.
What are the key achievements of Bristol Tennessee City Schools?
BTCS received all A and B grades in the new letter grade rating system and has multiple schools designated as Reward Schools for outstanding achievement.
What is the purpose of introducing a therapy dog in the schools?
The therapy dog initiative aims to improve the emotional well-being of students, providing support and comfort within the school environment.
What decision did the Bristol Tennessee Board of Education postpone?
The board postponed a decision about accepting the ownership of surplus property from the city, due to concerns regarding potential flood zones and renovation costs.
Key Features of the Announcement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Superintendent Recognition | Annette Tudor named 2026 Tennessee Superintendent of the Year. |
| BTCS Achievement | All A and B grades under new grading system. |
| Reward Schools | Four BTCS schools designated as Reward Schools. |
| Therapy Dog Initiative | Introduction of a therapy dog named “Dolly” in schools. |
| Property Decision | Postponed decision on surplus property acceptance. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bristol, TN Residents Protest Proposed Charter Changes Affecting Schools
Bristol City Council Proposes Education Department Amid Opposition
Bristol City Council Moves to Establish Education Department
Johnson City and Kingsport Schools Achieve Top TVAAS Scores
Bristol, Tennessee Faces School Charter Controversy
Bristol School System Faces Proposed Charter Changes
Kingsport School Community Remembers Beloved Educator
School Board Delays Decision on Melrose Property
Bristol Schools Celebrate Annette Tudor’s Recognition
Bristol City Schools Recognizes Superintendent with Award
Additional Resources
- WJHL: BTCS’s Tudor Named Tennessee Superintendent of the Year
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Tennessee
- SuperTalk 929: BTCS Superintendent Annette Tudor Named 2026 TN Superintendent of the Year
- Google Search: Annette Tudor
- WCYB: Northeast Tennessee Schools Excel in State Measures
- Google Scholar: Bristol Tennessee City Schools
- WCYB: Tennessee Schools Graded A to F, Bristol Excels
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee Education
- WJHL: Superintendent Interviews in Bristol Tennessee and Johnson County
- Google News: Annette Tudor
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
