Janice Kinard-Bean

Mother of Harleigh '14
Alexandria, Va.

WHERE DID YOU ATTEND HIGH SCHOOL? HOW DOES EHS COMPARE TO THE HIGH SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED?

I attended Bamberg-Ehrhardt High School in South Carolina. BHHS had caring teachers, but EHS offers a student so much more: the opportunity to grow and find out who they are. The faculty advise the students in a wonderful, fun-loving way. I wish I could have had the same experience.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO CONSIDER A BOARDING SCHOOL FOR HARLEIGH ’14?

Early on in Harleigh's growth, I considered boarding school. I researched over the years what boarding school offered a student. I was looking in the New England area, only to find that the best boarding school on the East Coast was right in my backyard. Two students from Harleigh's middle school were enrolled and often communicated with her about EHS.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO SEND HER TO EHS?

I chose EHS because of its rich history, academic strength, location, and variety of sports programs. When we came for our visit, I felt like I was coming home for a family reunion. The sense of community is not just spoken; it is demonstrated in every way. Everyone was kind, warm, and genuine.

HOW HAS EHS IMPACTED HER LIFE?

EHS has allowed Harleigh to challenge herself. She has always been a high achiever, but EHS has helped her to manage her achievements. It has been extremely important for her to be around students like herself. She has become more confident in her abilities. EHS has afforded her the opportunity to travel to Nicaragua and Spain, where she broadened her love of the Spanish language. It's given her the independence that I saw in her when she was two. She would always say, "I can do it myself," and tried really hard to complete any task. Often getting frustrated, she knew I was there to help. EHS has given her the same safety net.
Harleigh has met some wonderful friends. Not just her peers, but parents of students. During Parents’ Weekend, many parents came up to me and told me how wonderful she is. EHS offers great opportunities for self-sufficiency and independence.

HOW HAS THE DECISION TO SEND HARLEIGH TO BOARDING SCHOOL AFFECTED HER RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU?

Our relationship has become stronger as I watch her grow into a wonderful, kind, caring young lady. When I want to help make a decision, she lets me know that she can do it. When she comes home, we can have long talks about everything. She doesn't call often, but I know she is busy with school and activities, and that gives me peace of mind.
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