In Remembrance of Geneva Epps Mosley

A Tribute from Dr. James Driscoll, Superintendent of Tempe Elementary Schools

Mrs. Geneva Epps Mosley believed that everybody is born with a talent, and when you find it, the sky’s the limit. Mrs. Mosley found her talent, and as a result became a transformational and beloved educator. For 50 years, Mrs. Mosley inspired thousands of Tempe Elementary students to find their talents and reach for their dreams. 

Growing up as a student in Crockett, Texas, Mrs. Mosley quickly learned that she had a knack for helping others and teaching her peers. After graduating from Arizona State University in 1959, Mrs. Mosley became the first African American teacher at Tempe Elementary School District. 

She served for 29 years as a classroom teacher; working 11 years as a kindergarten teacher at Frank Elementary, and an additional 18 years as a junior high teacher at Gililland Middle School. Following her retirement in 1989, Mrs. Mosley continued to impact students as a substitute teacher across many Tempe Elementary schools.

Mrs. Mosley’s students remember her being the type of teacher whose care went beyond the classroom. She regularly created opportunities for her students to interact and have fun after school. If there were new students who joined her class in the middle of the year, Mrs. Mosley put extra effort into ensuring those students felt a part of the overall school community. 

Former students in Mrs. Mosley’s class have shared countless stories that highlight her innate ability to connect with them individually, especially in challenging times. Mrs. Mosley knew how to give students the support and encouragement that they needed, while also challenging them and giving them opportunities to succeed. 

She reminded students on a regular basis that they were valued, and that each and every one of them had the potential for greatness. She helped countless students dig deep into their hearts and minds to find their unique passions and dreams. Her commitment to student success remained unwavering throughout her time at Tempe Elementary Schools, and it will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to have Mrs. Mosley as their teacher.

In 2022, Tempe Elementary School District renamed Gililland Middle School to Geneva Epps Mosley Middle School. It was a great honor and privilege that Mrs. Mosley was present for the ribbon cutting ceremony, and was able to celebrate her legacy with us. 

Through her unyielding passion and dedication as a longtime educator, we remain inspired by Mrs. Mosley. We are proud to carry her name on our school building, and carry forward her belief that all students are capable of reaching their dreams.