Superintendent Ed Tierney, Board Chair John Dick and Principal Christine Paul were proud to present senior Teddi Crisp with a Monroe County School District GEMS Awards in recognition of her extraordinary determination and commitment to personal growth. Teddi’s journey is a powerful example of what it means to choose challenge over convenience and to pursue excellence with heart.
Despite qualifying for a waiver through her IEP, Teddi made the bold decision to earn a passing score on the FAST ELA Reading graduation requirement. After scoring Level 1 in grade 10 and Level 2 on both retakes her junior year, she reached her goal this fall with a Level 3—an achievement that reflects not only academic progress but deep personal resolve.
This year, Teddi has embraced a new path with remarkable focus. Her attendance has improved dramatically: after missing 59 days over the past four years, she has missed only one day so far. She is taking a full course load, including an AP class, and working diligently to raise her GPA above a 3.0. Her efforts have already earned her a spot on the AB Honor Roll for the first quarter.
Teddi’s story is one of grit, growth, and self-advocacy. She exemplifies the spirit of the GEMS Awards— showing Growth, Excellence, Motivation, and Spirit—and reminds us that the most meaningful victories are often the ones we choose for ourselves. We celebrate her courage, her progress, and the bright future she is building through hard work and heart.