Jaymie Morst-Craig, a graduating senior at Crispus Attucks High School, shared her experiences and accomplishments in a feature released by Indianapolis Public Schools on May 18. Morst-Craig discussed the challenges she faced during high school and highlighted her academic achievements, including earning an associate degree from Ivy Tech Community College while still enrolled in high school.
The Graduation Spotlight series aims to share the stories of students preparing for graduation, emphasizing their resilience and growth. Through these narratives, Indianapolis Public Schools seeks to showcase how its educators, families, and communities contribute to student success.
Morst-Craig said she is especially proud of completing her associate’s degree: “It means a lot to me because some people didn’t think I could do it, and for a while, I started to believe that, too. Accomplishing helped me to believe in myself, because I had started to believe what other people said… that I couldn’t do it.” She also credited Mrs. Ayala with building her confidence since freshman year: “When I told her I wanted to be a nurse, she encouraged me to dream bigger and reminded me that I could even run a hospital one day.”
Reflecting on personal growth since starting high school, Morst-Craig said: “I used to be more immature and didn’t take school as seriously… Now I push myself to earn A’s.” She described overcoming setbacks after being removed from school at age 16: “That experience ended up motivating me to work harder and move forward.” Looking ahead, she expressed excitement about college life and set goals such as becoming an RN by age 19 with plans for further education and professional development.
Indianapolis Public Schools serves over 30,000 students through various schools and programs focused on academic excellence in central Indianapolis. The district emphasizes racial equity as a core priority while providing tailored education designed around relationships in dynamic settings under the leadership of Superintendent Aleesia Johnson,according to the official website.
Morst-Craig offered advice for incoming freshmen: “Sign up for every program that you can and start with a strong GPA because it is hard to rebound. Also, first impressions last for a long time.” The Graduation Spotlight series continues highlighting seniors whose stories reflect the broader mission of Indianapolis Public Schools.