Eighteen years ago, I was invited to attend Mount Madonna's Class of 2003 High School Graduation. Five seniors graduated in that class and at their commencement ceremony, each gave an inspiring, well articulated speech about their personal life story. I don't remember their specific stories, but one spoke about overcoming difficult adversity and others about their gratitude for their teachers, friends and time at the school.
I do strongly remember the way I felt. I was inspired and amazed by the maturity of these young people and awed at the head start I felt they had in their lives.
I turned to my wife after the ceremony and proclaimed that no matter what, our child(ren) would go to school here. My first daughter had just been born six or so weeks prior, and like any new father I wanted to provide her with as many opportunities to grow, be enriched and hopefully to be as inspiring as the high school seniors I had just witnessed.
Fast forward to 2021; in just a few weeks, my daughter will be one of the new graduating seniors from Mount Madonna School. Her studies began in kindergarten with the most loving teachers you could imagine. Not only did their care, kindness and compassion for each student shine through, these teachers also began my daughter's journey by making school fun. They engaged her imagination and curiosity and stimulated her desire to learn.
Through each grade at Mount Madonna, this foundation has been built on, expanded and developed. Yes, she's learned to read, write, do arithmetic, but it's her mindfulness, emotional readiness, compassion, and the strong relationships with fellow students and teachers that will last throughout her life.
Yes, as parents we've made personal sacrifices to afford to send her to this school. Yes, it's a small school and they can't offer every sport or foreign language as some bigger schools can. Mount Madonna excels in supporting what interests the student, as well as offering a tremendous (often under-appreciated) unique curricula and multicultural traditions that prepare students for life as kind, compassionate adults ready to step out in the world. Situated on a beautiful campus high on the mountain, it can feel somewhat remote. The campus offers a beautiful setting in nature that inspires students to care for the environment, learn natural sciences, hike, explore and attend outdoor classes. The campus includes student gardens, a new amphitheater and two gyms.
If you are a parent, grandparent or friend of someone with children, I encourage you to learn more about Mount Madonna School. Learn how each grade has unique and incredible touchstones, which I have never experienced in public schools. Ask about the Buddy Program and rites of passage through each of the schools (pre/k, elementary, middle school and high school). Check out the science programs in each grade, which sustain a strong emphasis on the environment and how personal choices make a difference; the Performing Arts Program, which begins in preschool to developing personal confidence; the public speaking support; and the state champion volleyball program, which teaches teamwork and engages students who enjoy sports more than homework (sometimes) as they become juniors and seniors. Inquire about the school's Values Program, which offers multitudes of well-balanced experiences (that can seem unbelievable to someone who hasn't experienced it) and equips students to become conscientious global citizens.
Thank you to all of the teachers, founders, administrators, staff, students and parents who are the heart of this little yet mighty school and who have had such a large impact on my daughters.
I am grateful for attending that graduation ceremony so long ago, which led to the opportunity for both of our children to have an extraordinary education and to be so enriched. read more
