Growing up in a not-so-populated area like my hometown, there were not many schools to choose from. You had your public school and your private school. There was never a "middle ground" type of school. I was always bullied, and I desperately needed a school where I could actually have a fighting chance of fitting in.
No one really understood me like the teachers at North New Summit School did. The teachers saw me through some really hard times in my life, and for that, I am thankful. Whenever I acted out in class or said something slightly rude, they still continued to search for the real me. I still keep in touch with a few of them who really stood out to me, and I still feel equally loved to this day.
I appreciate the fact I ended up at NNSS. Even though at first I did not feel like I fit in still, as the years went on I got to know almost my entire school and the faculty within it. For once in my life, I actually looked forward to going to school because I knew that at the end of the day my teachers really cared about me. Every good grade I made, in turn, made them happy. They wanted to see me achieve my goals.
Graduating from there actually made me sad, and I did not want to leave. It was so strange for me to think about going to a whole new school away from everything familiar. My teachers still even then encouraged me. They helped me work through my anxiety about college.
Going to New Summit changed my outlook on life a little. I figured out that not everyone you meet is out to get you or make you the odd one out. Some people are there to actually encourage you and to be your friend. Sometimes teachers go far beyond their job and take on a motherly role for those who need it. They become counselors and most importantly they become memorable.
During my time there, I met some amazing people and learned some valuable life lessons. I realized there that, although life is not fair, all things are possible through God. I am so proud of my little school and the way it has grown over the last three years I have been gone. They not only have started sports teams but have been making a big impact in my community. I cannot thank everyone at North New Summit School enough for the things they are doing to better our community and for loving every student like their own child. The love and compassion that comes from each of them truly is unforgettable.
My suggestion to anyone going to a small school is to hang in there. I know it seems like the teachers are all in your business, but trust me, they only do it because they care! The friends you make in your small school will last a lifetime because you all are so close. Cherish the memories you are making now and I promise that before you know it you will be graduating too!
