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Eric Bowman named finalist for principal of the year




Eric Bowman

Eric Bowman

The Tennessee Department of Education has announced the nine finalists for the 2020-21 Tennessee Principal of the Year, which include T.W. Hunter Middle School Principal, Eric Bowman. Bowman is entering his 16th year with Sumner County Schools and is a T.W. Hunter alum.

“This recognition speaks to the commitment to excellence in education that is shared by the students, parents, and educators at T.W. Hunter Middle School,” Bowman said. “I am privileged to serve the same community that taught me from an early age the same values of faith, honesty, and hard work that I strive to impart on my students.

“I am proud to be a part of what is occurring on this corner of the Shackle Island community, and I look forward to positively impacting the lives of young people here for many years to come.”

T.W. Hunter Middle School is consistently ranked among the top middle schools in the state of Tennessee in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Earning a Level 5 distinction for academic growth, T.W. Hunter was recognized as a Reward School by the Tennessee Department of Education. The Nashville Business Journal named T.W. Hunter in the Top 10 Public Middle Schools, in the Nashville area. In 2020, Bowman was named Sumner County Principal of the Year.

“Mr. Bowman is a dynamic school leader with a passion for T.W. Hunter and the children of the community,” Director of Sumner County Schools, Dr. Del Phillips said. “Great teachers and leaders lay the foundation for success and we are excited to hear that Mr. Bowman has been recognized for this achievement.”

The nine finalists represent each Center of Regional Excellence (CORE) region in the state, with three finalists in each Grand Division-West, Middle, and East.  

“All across the state, our exceptional school and district leaders are working tirelessly to ensure that students are safe, fed and continue to have access to high-quality learning opportunities—all while leading their communities through a totally new era of education,” said Commissioner Penny Schwinn.  “Strong leadership is vital to the success of our students and educators, and I am grateful to these incredible leaders who are doing so much to serve students.” 

The Tennessee Principal of the Year award is awarded annually to a school leader for outstanding service in education and exceptional leadership that drives overall improvements in his or her school. To qualify, candidates must have a minimum of three years’ experience as a principal and a minimum of five years’ experience in public schools. In addition, all nominees must have a proven track record of exceptional gains in student learning.  

For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, contact Edu.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.   

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