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Contributed commentary by Teresa Crosslin on recent news regarding her appointment to the School Board:

This past Monday, with great joy and a sincere desire to serve our community, I was sworn in as the District 3 School Board member for the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System. I spent that day in training, grateful for the board’s warm welcome and the district’s support in helping me get up to speed.

That same day, the school district received an “anonymous call” claiming that I appeared in an adult Showtime television show more than a decade ago. When this was disclosed to me, I panicked. Believing that resigning might spare the School Board and my family embarrassment, I stepped down before I had time to think clearly.

It has since become clear that this “anonymous call” was politically motivated. Local Democrats sought to pressure me out of office so they could install their preferred candidate. The timing of the call, delivered after I was sworn in, combined with the rapid posting of this information on the Montgomery County Democrats’ Facebook page, Democrat-aligned outlets, The Tennessee Holler, and the coordinated online push to defame me speaks for itself.

I am not a politician. I am a lifelong community member who stepped forward to serve our district. When confronted with sensitive information from my past, and not wanting to become the center of controversy, I reacted out of fear and resigned. But with the understanding that I was set up and pressured into that decision, I am withdrawing my resignation. I am ready to serve. This experience has only strengthened my resolve and deepened my commitment to our students, families and schools.

I also want to make something absolutely clear: The Democrat members of our School Board have been nothing but kind and supportive. I do not believe they had any involvement in what took place, and I look forward to serving alongside them.

Now, to address the matter plainly: Yes, the information from the initial call is true. I’ve never denied it happened – I just didn’t comment about it when previously asked. Nearly 13 years ago, during a low point in my life, I appeared in the show referenced. We all have chapters we wish we could rewrite. Mine is now on full display. I own it. I do not hide from it. And I will not allow it to define me. I recommitted my life to Christ, and I stand today as a new creation in Him.

To the public, I apologize for the whiplash caused by my resignation and now my withdrawal of that resignation. My initial decision was made in a moment of panic and isolation. After prayer, counsel and reflection, I know I am ready and willing to serve our community with integrity, resilience and renewed purpose.

Thank you for your understanding, and thank you for the privilege to serve.

Teresa Crosslin

| MORE: Crosslin withdraws School Board resignation, says ‘Gigolos’ appearance will not define her