2024 Jaidon Joseph Smith Educational Kickstarter Scholarship Award Recipient

Teke’s educational journey began with frustration and isolation in elementary school. Constrained by rigid academic norms, he felt misunderstood and overlooked. But in fifth grade, a pivotal diagnosis—Twice Exceptional—changed everything. Teke joined the MCPS GT/LD program, where individuality took center stage.

The first lesson he learned there was advocacy. Teke learned to own his differences, speaking up confidently. Simple tools and accommodations transformed his learning experience, unlocking understanding and enjoyment. His middle school case worker, a silent guide, also nudged him toward social confidence. Teke’s personal needs and learning style became compass points, allowing him to thrive in challenging classes.

As swim team coach and high school swim team captain, Teke embraced diverse learning styles. The GT/LD program’s impact was profound. It equipped him with self-regulation, organization, and resilience. Teke credits the staff’s unwavering support, connecting him with peers who shared his journey. Now, he aims high—MIT, Stanford—ready to continue his growth and success and we cannot wait to hear how it goes