Tenielle Marie Melendy was born on December 4, 2006, to Karen and Sean Melendy. She has three siblings: Danica, Keira, and Landon. Her favorite teachers are Ms. Page, Mrs. Johnson, and Ms. Braswell because "they have helped me through so many challenges and had confidence in me when I didn’t have confidence in myself." Her favorite quote from a staff member comes from Ms. Braswell: "I’ve never relied on a student the way I rely on Tenielle." Three words she would use to describe herself are intelligent, gullible, and hardworking. If she could travel anywhere in the world, she would choose Forks, Washington, because "I heard people sparkle there. IYKYK." Tenielle’s favorite school memory is from her junior year government class, where she made the best friends she could ever ask for. Her most embarrassing high school moment occurred when she accidentally texted the senior group chat "Mommy."
As a child, Tenielle dreamed of becoming a teacher. Now, after high school, she plans to fulfill her dreams by attending SEMO to major in elementary education. Tenielle is involved in several extracurricular activities, including BETA, PEP Club, FCCLA, Yearbook, and FBLA. Her advice to underclassmen is: "Know your worth. Never let anyone tell you that you don’t deserve the things you’ve worked hard for. Let your actions speak louder than words and show them you are worthy. If they can’t see your value, then don’t even give them the time of day." When asked how she feels about graduating, she said, "I am nervous but hopeful for my future." One thing Tenielle will miss about high school is seeing her friends every day. The person who has had the biggest influence on her is her parents, as they have taught her the importance of hard work and instilled valuable morals in her. She feels her biggest accomplishment so far is finally coming out of her shell since she wouldn’t talk to anyone during her freshman year.
SHOUTOUTS: Mom, Dad, Danica, Keira, Landon, Grandpa Tom, Grandma Sharon, Grandma Doris, The Benjis, Janelle, Ms. page, Lotte, Beej, Haley, Dylan, Tom, Lisa, and Chad