8th Grader Spencer Foxx Soars to Success with Support from M.O.S.T., his School, and his Family

Starting his academic journey as a PreK-3 student at St. Paul Catholic School, 8^th grader Spencer Foxx has built strong bonds with teachers and classmates in his 11 years at the school, coming of age in an environment that has nourished his fascination with science, his love of soccer, and a bourgeoning interest in theater. His mother, Tabitha Foxx, says the school has shaped him into a self-confident young man who knows to lean in to his talents and interests and push himself to succeed, acting as a mentor to younger St. Paul students.

“Spencer has developed a sense of family outside of his biological family,” Tabitha said. “St. Paul is very close-knit and everyone knows everyone. We're going to miss it, because this will be his last year- St. Paul only goes to the 8th grade, so now he's a mentor to the students that are coming up to junior high school. The teachers really, really care, and it's been incredible. We're sad that this time is coming to end.”

Two older Foxx siblings attended private schools in Memphis, an older brother who attended MUS and an older sister who went to Immaculate Conception. Neither were M.O.S.T. Scholars, but only because the family wasn’t aware of the opportunity.

“Immaculate Conception sent home a newsletter which had a little article about M.O.S.T.,” said Tabitha. “I had never heard of M.O.S.T. before, and the timing was excellent for us. Spencer was so young then and I knew that if we got his foot in the door as a M.O.S.T. Scholar when he was just starting his school years, it could follow him throughout his education.”

When Spencer was selected in the 2014-2015 school year’s lottery and became a M.O.S.T. Scholar, the Foxx family tapped into a network of support that has impacted his life deeply.

“M.O.S.T. has been awesome, a great opportunity for Spencer and for us. It’s allowed us to seek a different type of education outside of what's offered in our neighborhood schools. It's an exceptional program, and we feel very blessed to be recipients of their generosity.”

Because of her affection for M.O.S.T. and appreciation for what it’s allowed Spencer to do as a student, she chose to attend this year’s M.O.S.T. Senior Reception with her son, despite the fact that they didn’t have friends or family in the graduating class.

“I felt it was important for Spencer to attend the Senior Reception because I wanted him to see what M.O.S.T. is doing for other scholars,” she said. “Attending gave him a chance to see and hear the amazing stories of the seniors and how grateful they and their families are. Also, it provided Spencer a chance to hear what M.O.S.T. is about now that he is older and able to understand the importance of this blessing.”

Tabitha’s gratitude also led her to reciprocate that generosity. Taking advantage of her employer’s philanthropic gift match policy, the Foxx family became donors in 2016, early in Spencer’s academic career.

“Because M.O.S.T. is such a great opportunity, I feel it's only fitting that we give back,” said Tabitha. “I would encourage all M.O.S.T. families to consider giving back. If you can do it now, do it now. You don't have to wait until your son or daughter has completed the program. In fact, I would encourage anyone who cares about Memphis’ future to consider becoming a M.O.S.T donor.

Once Spencer leaves 8^th grade at St. Paul, the family is transitioning to St. Benedict for his high school education. He visited the school on a shadowing day and felt an attachment to the school, drawn in particular to the performing arts facilities, where he hopes to get involved in the theatre department.

After that? It’s hard to say for a 14-year-old who hasn’t yet left junior high school behind. But Tabitha says he’s already dropping clues.

“His older brother graduated from Middle Tennessee State University and Spencer said 'I think I want to go there,’” Tabitha said. “His brother majored in forensic science and is currently working in his field in Wheaton, Illinois. Spencer really looks up to him and has given signals that he wants to follow his footsteps.”

“But he’s still quite young. I tell him ‘The world is yours, whatever you put your mind on, whatever you have your sights on, you can do it. Harness your huge potential and chase your dreams.”