When I first came on staff at Providence Hall 10 years ago, I didn’t know a whole lot about Classical Christian Education… but I knew it was special and I wanted to be a part of it! I did not have children at the time but I knew when I did, this is where I wanted them to go to school. I genuinely could not wait to learn and grow along side them.
Fast forward to last year. I finally had a PreK student! I was blown away with all of the information that he soaked in. He loved to go to school, his classmates, his teachers, and even his uniform. When the world came to a screeching halt because of COVID-19, The Academy jumped into action and got GriffinsLive up and going in no time. It was not how we can wished to end our school year, but I am so thankful for the time and effort that went in to finishing well.
Most recently, the Kindergarten students had their Around the World Festival. My son was so very excited for this event. We counted down the days, researched facts about his selected country, prepped the board and food, we were ready! The big day finally arrived and the excitement was as high as ever. He marched into the sanctuary and did the recitations with his class and at the end, the 8th grade students gave them a standing ovation. It was the sweetest thing to watch and the kids were so so proud. In a year where things could not be “normal” this felt like the most glorious, normal event for my 6 year old.
After the program ended, the students went to stand by the boards they made with research about their country. The older students walked around and asked questions, stuck around for the answers, and truly engaged with the kids. It brought me to tears. The excitement that came with a big kid asking about his project, the way he so joyfully told them all about England… there just isn’t another place I would rather have my kids learn and grown.
I love so many things about The Academy, but I think the one that strikes me the most is the genuine sense of love and community that my children feel every day. The Academy is such a unique place and it is truly a blessing to watch my children (and many of yours too) learn, thrive and grow here. The friendships they make, the teachers who pour into them, the administration who loves and desires the best for them… The perceptions I had 10 years ago were accurate. This school has something special and I’m so thankful that my students get to be part of it.
Written by South Campus Parent and Teacher, Kimberly Reynolds