Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) is proud to partner with the Memphis Grizzlies to foster a love for athletics, teamwork, and community pride throughout the school year.

As part of the Grizzlies’ kickoff “Grizz Week,” the team highlighted and rewarded six outstanding MSCS teachers and principals whose students consistently show up to school – a core message of the Grizzlies’ “Show Up” initiative.

The honorees are Leigha Walton-Bayne from Medical District High, Kailyn Downs from Kirby High, Fredricka Johnson and Coshalyn Robinson from Ridgeway High, and Brielle Barrett and Bianca Sullivan from Downtown Elementary.

“At the Memphis Grizzlies, ‘Showing Up’ is more than a house rule – it’s a commitment,” said a representative from the Grizzlies. “It means being present, dependable, and ready to make an impact every single day. That’s why we’re proud to stand with MSCS and celebrate educators who show up – not just in body, but in heart and spirit – for their students.”

As a token of appreciation, the Grizzlies presented these educators with special prizes and packages – and maybe even tickets to the team’s home opener!

“MSCS’s motto, ‘Showing Up for Greatness,’ is more than a slogan. It’s a promise,” added the Grizzlies representative. “And these teachers are living proof of what happens when you keep that promise. They show up early. They stay late. They lift up their students. And they lead by example. We see you. We appreciate you. And today, we honor you. On behalf of the entire Grizzlies organization – thank you for showing up for greatness.”

Ridgeway High School teacher Fredricka Johnson shared that she tries to model that same commitment in her own classroom.

“Good attendance is one factor of being successful in school. In order for my students to understand this concept, I try to lead by example,” Johnson said. “Students receive the best instruction when I am present. So, I do my best to ‘show up’ each day for them. That is how greatness will continue to grow in my class.”

“To me, showing up means giving my all every single day staying dedicated, committed, and focused on helping my students grow,” said Kailyn Downs of Kirby High School. “Being recognized by the Memphis Grizzlies and MSCS is an incredible honor and a reminder that hard work and consistency never go unnoticed.”

At Downtown Elementary, Bianca Sullivan said she makes “showing up” a key message for her students. Noting that attendance is more than just being physically present but mentally present as well.

“It’s about giving your all when you’re there, because every second counts and every moment is a learning opportunity,” Sullivan said. “My students know that their presence matters to me. When we ‘show up,’ that’s when learning starts and growth happens. Being recognized by the Grizzlies reinforces for my students the importance of ‘showing up’ every day for themselves and their future.”

These educators demonstrate their commitment in tangible ways by ensuring attendance is recorded accurately and consistently, a step that plays an important role in student success and district data.

“The second step in the attendance process – after students arrive at school – is the teacher taking accurate attendance in PowerSchool,” said Mildred D. Avery, Manager of Enrollment at MSCS. “This step is crucial in keeping accurate and timely attendance records. These honorees consistently record attendance on time every day, supporting our Greatness Starts with Showing Up initiative. We’re thrilled to recognize their hard work this week alongside the Grizzlies.”

MSCS is grateful to the Memphis Grizzlies for celebrating the educators who make a difference every day. When teachers and students show up ready to learn, lead, and inspire; greatness grows across our district.

If you have a story about a MSCS student, teacher, or school to highlight, please email us at communications@scsk12.org. Include the school name, story details, and an SCSK12.ORG email for follow-up.