Tedi Gibbons, representing the Sprouse Class of Buford Street United Methodist Church, presents Breanna Fitzgerald the 2010 John E. Ewing Bootstrap Award. Tedi Gibbons, a spokesperson for the Sprouse Class of Buford Street United Methodist Church, recently presented the John E. Ewing Bootstrap Award to Breanna Fitzgerald, who completed her eighth grade class in May.

The award is given annually to a student selected by the faculty who has the qualities of self-determination and persistence that were so evident in Ewing's life and work. Coming from a simple rural background, John Ewing early developed an interest in education and leadership. He often said that he pulled himself up by his own bootstraps, and this concept led the Sprouse Class of Buford Street United Methodist Church to create an annual award in his name. The class also led the movement and raised the money to change the name of East Junior High School to John E. Ewing Middle School following his death.

Breanna, daughter of Melisa Fitzgerald of the McKown's Mountain community, participated in the band, tried out for color guard, served in the Junior Firefighters Program, performed well in class, and always kept a positive attitude. She was also cited by one of her teachers for her willingness to stay after school to help where she was needed.