For the last nine years, Sandy Tinsley has served as principal of South Forsyth Middle School (SFMS), a high performing sixth through eighth grade school where “excellence never rests.” During her tenure, Tinsley has supported staff in evolving to deliver a data-driven, student-centered curriculum that addresses the needs of the whole child, blending core content instruction with lessons that build 21st Century skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and social-emotional development. Throughout this process, Tinsley has positioned herself as an instructional leader and a champion of continuous professional learning. By helping to clarify and standardize grading practices, introducing data teams, and guiding the implementation of personalized learning methodologies, Tinsley has led SFMS to sustained and improved achievement while cultivating internal leadership and expertise. Tinsley’s leadership is grounded in her “intense devotion and loyalty to students and staff” and her deep commitment to equal learning opportunities for all. To make sure that vision is a reality at SFMS, she has led the reorganization of the schedule to guarantee time for additional academic support for struggling students and has built community partnerships to create opportunities for enrichment and challenge within and beyond the school. Tinsley is active in multiple professional associations and community organizations, with positions on two service-related boards. She holds B.A. and M.A. degrees in Education from Brenau College and an Education Specialist degree from Lincoln Memorial University.