Spencer Gridley was born in Fulton, NY, and attended high school in Central Square, where he played varsity basketball and golf. After high school he graduated from Cornell University with a BS in Agricultural Education, and furthered his education at SUNY Oswego, where he earned his Master's degree in Technology Education.
Spence was a beloved teacher and mentor who taught in Sidney Central School for thirty-three years. He enjoyed being able to help guide so many students to become the best that they could be. As Spence has said, "It is difficult to grow up and be successful. I am so proud that my students have been able to do well." That goal was of the utmost importance to him. Gary Scavo (WOF '17) was another leader who would "talk things out" with Spence, to help him always find ways to benefit the students.
Spencer taught agriculture, business, junior high technology, senior high school technology, and environmental science, in addition to advising the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter and training many Agriculture State Champions. He also served as the Teachers' Union president for several years.
He supported his favorite teams, which included all of Sidney sports, especially field hockey,cheerleading, soccer, cross country, track,basketball and baseball.
The highlight of his career was when he was chosen New York State Chairman of the FFA and received an honorary American Farmer degree from the national FFA for his years of dedication to teaching and working closely with the FFA students.
Spencer volunteered his time with the Kiwanis Club of Sidney, the Masons and Eastern Star and Rotary. He was a devoted member of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. He loved learning from the students who visited Sidney from all over the world, and enjoyed helping to arrange for Sidney students to spend a year abroad. In Spence's words, "Rotary is awesome,but this piece of it is at the top of my list!"
Dr. Nick Nuciforo, former Superintendent of Sidney Schools,commented that "his passion for supporting youth was unquestionable. Spence always opened his door and his heart to the students." He added, "Spence gave up countless hours devoted to citrus sales, trips to the Oswegatchie FFA Camp,helping students with their projects for the area and state fairs, accompanying FFA students and officers to area,regional, state and national conventions and nurturing the innate talents of many. Spence Gridley always had a smile on his face,a golf club in his hand,and the students in his heart."