I can very easily say that Clear Spring and the people within it have made me an infinitely better person. Despite my hardships with this place and having to leave for a bit, I can’t express how glad I am to have returned. I’ve learned so much that I think far more independently and critically while still keeping an open mind, being receptive to others’ thoughts, and treating them with kindness regardless of how much I’m afraid I have to disagree.
I’ve changed into such a nice person and let go of so much anxiety and bitterness. Although I give myself plenty of credit for the initiative and effort I put in, I also know that being here influenced that change hugely without me even realizing it. I’m infinitely grateful for the experiences I’ve been given here. I thank those who made them possible.
One of my favorite trips with the school was when Tammy and her husband, Stephen, went with us to George’s Majestic Lounge in Fayetteville to meet the members of Big Thief and listen to them play during their soundcheck. Meeting such amazing musicians was an honor; they were incredibly cool and easygoing.
We went out for pizza afterward and spent the ride back to school playing different songs over the van speakers, taking student requests, and singing along all off-key. It wasn’t the wildest night, but it felt so magical; everyone was so carefree and filled with joy, which is rare to see in a whole group of angsty teenagers. It was an extraordinary night, and I can’t wait for Big Thief to tour again so I can see them for their whole set the next time.
More than that, however, I especially enjoyed our time in Kansas City with Tammy and Aly. We went to many incredibly cool places, had fantastic food, visited and participated in multiple charity organizations, and stayed in the big, gorgeous estate owned by Tammy’s father, Mike, and stepmother, Beth.
My best memories from the trip might be considered a bit mundane, but they all took place in that estate. I loved being able to swim in the pool despite it being fall, shooting each other with water guns and splashing each other as hard as we could. I love rooming with my friends, gossiping with Katlyn and Bella, and giggling in the dark. It was a lovely experience overall; Mike and Beth were incredibly kind and hospitable; I could have stayed there another week easily and enjoyed every minute.
These are just a couple of favorites out of dozens of great experiences I’ve had with Clear Spring. As of now, I actually work here, having finished my credits in December; I now get the opportunity to work in the office and classrooms. I help out with field trips, fill in for our teacher aides, file past student information, and participate in a couple of clubs, amongst other things. I absolutely adore it.
I love all my co-workers; they’re unique, driven individuals who inspire me in many ways. I sincerely enjoy working with the students, especially those in middle school. Those kids are so intelligent and funny, full of joy and excitement, and as hyperactive and draining as they can sometimes be, it is so worth it. I love being here; this school feels genuinely magical. I cherish the memories I’ve made here and hope to make more in the future.
Clear Spring School is proud to announce that after being featured in the newspaper, this story, along with many others from alumni, parents, teachers, and staff, will be included in our Fiftieth Anniversary Anthology, The Miracle in the Woods, set to be released in October 2024.