Philip Allison ’14; Vanderbilt University

1) TLS is a great one. TLS prepared me excellently for life after Middle School, and I will carry what I learned there for the rest of my life. All of my teachers were fantastic, it was a great learning environment, and my best friends today are those I met in sixth grade. I have only fond memories of my days at TLS; I genuinely loved every minute of my TLS years.

2) My two favorite teachers at TLS were Mr. Conley and Mr. Hurst. Both were my basketball coaches at some point and my lacrosse coaches, and every class was a good one. I still have a relationship with them, as they both lived near me, and I highly recommend kids to play the sports these teachers are coaching.

3) Live in the moment at TLS. Time flies, and the relationships you form at TLS have the potential to be special and to last you your entire life. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to recount my TLS golden years.

Kelsay Birdsong ’14; Bluegrass Community & Technical College, Radiology Program

1) The Learning Center improved me from being behind to excelling and graduating with high honors and on the dean’s list. My self-esteem improved academically so much. I am at BCTC in the radiology program with plans to continue at UK to get a four-year degree.

2) Favorite memories were the Little Kentucky Derby celebration as well as going to get groceries at Thanksgiving for the less fortunate.

3) You can learn and have fun with support from the excellent teachers.

Isabeau Camp ’14; Miami University of Ohio

1) TLS taught me so many useful skills that if I were to list them all, you would have a full-on novel on your hands. But if I had to narrow it down, the most important concept I gained from TLS was a positive relationship with my teachers. I never felt scared to ask for help, a skill that greatly aided me in high school, and even now in college. The impact of having teachers who care and are willing to help makes it so you never feel isolated or stupid for trying to learn.

2) I adored every time I walked into Miss Cowling’s room. Her passion for history and the amazingly detailed stories she shared are the main reasons I pursued history so ardently in high school.

3) Try not to take it for granted. You only have this close-knit community for so long until you are thrust out into the big, bad, scary world.

Halle Cline ’14; University of Kentucky

1) TLS prepared me for high school and beyond. The Lexington School is a place where students are forced to learn outside the classroom. It takes a strong, core curriculum and stretches to become something completely different. I have yet to have an English class as challenging and rewarding as Dr. Bonzo’s eighth grade course. At TLS, my mind was challenged in a such a way that nowhere else could match.

2) TLS holds my second family, and a great deal of my favorite memories. Miss Cowling holds a special place in my mind and heart. She is simply the best of the best when it comes to history. I can still feel my hand cramp when I think about writing notes in her class and see the multiple written-on review packets strewn across my desk at home. I can honestly say I grew as a student in her class and still use those skills she taught me to this day. With her are so many others who helped me grow throughout my experience. I love walking down the different hallways and seeing teachers who greet me with a giant smile, hug, and a “how have you been doing?” TLS’s faculty is incomparable and, as a whole, my favorite memory.

3) Enjoy your time at TLS and do not take it for granted! Current TLSers, you do not realize yet the amazing education you are blessed to receive. No matter where you might travel for high school, you will have a moment where you realize nothing will ever be like The Lexington School – in the best way possible. The friends you make will follow you for years to come. The family of teachers, as I have learned, will always be at TLS to support you no matter the endeavors you encounter after your graduation from The Lexington School. Truly, nowhere else can compare to this school of ours.

Jack Cline ’14; Louisiana State University

1) TLS helped me get an early start on making sure I knew how I studied and learned best. It served me well through high school and continues to do so in college!

2) I will always remember Miss Cowling’s history class and being on the football team with Coach Conley!

3) Have fun! TLS goes by quicker than you think, and it’s good to slow down and enjoy it every once in a while.

Geaux Colts! My photo is from a summer trip to the Oregon wilderness.

Zachary Coons ’14; University of Richmond

1) TLS gave me the skills I needed to get accepted at the University of Richmond and to achieve any goal I set out to reach.

2) My favorite event at TLS was definitely the Southwest Sequel or one of the two Costa Rica trips I went on. I enjoyed some amazing experiences with the Johnsons and with my fellow TLS alumni.

3) Enjoy TLS while you're there. That's probably what most alumni say, and there's a reason why. My best friends to this day were in my grade at TLS, and we have so many amazing memories at the school. (It's probably best that I don't share many of these stories. I don't think the administration wants to know.)

Juliet Criswell-Marco ’14; Bluegrass Community & Technical College, Assoc. for Fine Arts, Film Program

1) TLS helped me in college because I learned how to take tests. I also learned to explore things that interested me, which in turn helped me discover what I should major in. I remember how several teachers would encourage me to do the things I was passionate about.

2) My favorite event would have to be all the middle school trips. I truly had a blast exploring, playing, and just being around my friends. During Middle School, I remember getting together with some friends to make some silly movies.

3) The best advice I can give students is to make sure you take time to find yourselves. Explore hobbies you enjoy, make art you want to make, be true to yourself, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Emma Draper ’14; Williams College

1) The most important way The Lexington School prepared me for college was by helping me develop a strong work ethic, which served me incredibly well in high school and will continue to do so in college. The integration of an honor code at TLS meant that the Williams Honor Code was no surprise to me this year.

2) While I can't recall specific events or conversations anymore, I can still remember the kindness, warmth, and energy that radiated from Tomi Lounsbury and Kelly Telech that made it feel like such a wonderful privilege to be able to speak with them.

3) Work hard to achieve your goals but be kind to yourself when you fall short. Understand the value of planning ahead, but don't get so caught up in the future that you forget how to be present. Accept that your interests and plans might change. Invest in your relationships. Think critically about your privileges. Treat people with kindness.

Jackson Leach ’14; Tulane University

1) TLS instilled me with great study habits and gave me a desire to learn and grow. I apply these tools to my education now in college, and I used them to guide me to success during all four years of high school.

2) To date, my favorite class period out of 13 years of education remains Miss Cowling's explanation of the Battle of Thermopylae (I still remember how to spell it) and the events surrounding it. Countless days of detailed history lessons inspired me to pursue history-based courses in college, and, remarkably, I retained much of the information Miss Cowling taught me in sixth and eighth grades.

3) Procrastination is the downfall of the modern student. With so much access to technology and online entertainment now, it’s difficult to have the discipline to give time to studying and time to leisure. TLS does a fantastic job of teaching this skill. Limit your time on your phone; you will thank yourself for it years down the road.

Cleve Merritt ’14; University of Kentucky

1) TLS prepared me for college in so many ways. Most importantly, it provided me with the tools to study efficiently and the ability to manage my time so I can succeed. I owe so much to TLS and to the continued support of all my past teachers and TLS friends.

2) My favorite memories of TLS are Spirit Day, guest speakers, and the awesome school trips, where you bond with teachers and friends, especially the final Southwest trip.

3) My advice to all current students is to take advantage of the guidance and support given. Ask for help and never be ashamed or shy away from asking questions because TLS teachers advocate for all students and all learning styles. They love you deeply, and you realize that when you leave and head onto high school. At any given moment when you walk back through the doors, you are greeted with huge hugs and have good talks with your past teachers. And most importantly, all teachers tell you that if you need anything at all to call and they will be there to help you in all your future adventures and endeavors.

Andres Mitchell ’14; Samford University

1) TLS prepared me for college in many ways, one of them being to have respect for others. In any classroom, the environment was that of listening to others speak before speaking. This creates a respectful and fun environment so we kids hardly argued or got annoyed with one another.

2) One of my favorite TLS memories comes from the seventh grade trip. Mr. Joe Griggs was the chaperone in the house I was in, and every night he read to us. I think it was one of The Hunger Games books, by Suzanne Collins. Anyway, it was kind of him to do that because all of us dudes back then loved that. To some, it was one of the best parts of our day. He also taught me a few things about making bacon for breakfast.

Another memory is talking with Ms. MacCarthy. I got called to her office and so did my best friend George Shashy ’14, but we weren’t scared. We weren’t nervous to talk to her. Why? Because she listened first and then spoke. In today’s society, everyone wants to be heard, wants to be right. Most people don’t care to step back and see the bigger picture (Mr. Phillip Chris Johnson ’89 taught me that). George and I weren’t scared because she listened to each of as if she was a good friend. She then was kind about why she wanted to speak with us and told us everything we needed to know. How many kids, Middle Schoolers, in today’s society do you think can say they aren’t scared of talking with their principal? Very few. But that’s the difference at TLS. Each teacher knows you as if you were an old friend. I could never forget my teachers.

3) Advice I can give for current TLSers? Well I don’t know too much, but I do know this: think before you speak. In this day and age, people have remembered that words have power. Whether it be for good or bad things, they are powerful. So, kids, when your mom or dad says: “Think before you speak,” you better listen. It can be the difference between your making a friend or losing the opportunity to make one.

One last piece of advice is this: “People won’t remember what you said to them, but they will remember how you made them feel.” My father taught me that. In the end – the big picture look – Middle School is just three years, but that can make an impact in not only the life of the speaker, but also to the listeners of those words.

P.S. Please send my warmest regards to the entire staff and faculty of the Middle School. I would not be the young man I am today without their guidance.

Mr. Hurst; I hope your turtle is okay. Don’t forget about Shao Lin Do!

Mr. Johnson; I’m still going to design the perfect Surfing Bus for the seventh graders to take on their trip :)

Miss Cowling; If it weren’t for you, my love for history would not be so. I’m taking Communication Arts 102, and its main focus is on all the wars the U.S. has had. We focus on each war by reading text from that time period. We just finished A Farewell to Arms, by Earnest Hemingway, where the protagonist is an American ambulance driver for the Italian Army. I miss your classes.

Señor Herrington and Señor Conley; Your Spanish teaching has helped me tremendously. I’m in Spanish 301, a junior level class as a freshman! I’m so thankful for the creativity you both used in your classes. When you make Spanish come alive, it’s easier and fun to learn. Thank you.

Dr. Bowling; I was in three plays at Sayre and my last play was a musical! I still remember the Shakespeare play and how I loved to act. Thank you for teaching me I can live more than one life; the stage is a portal to many lives.

Dr. Bonzo; I’m thankful for your strenuous classes. The way you sort of “tear down” the bad habits we have and help us build the things we are missing; that is amazing. I’m so thankful for your class.

Mrs. Staley; Hi! There was a saying in Dr. Cooper’s room: “If you cannot teach me to fly, teach me to sing.” That wasn’t the case for me. For me, it was, “If you cannot teach me to fly, teach me how to draw,” because I wasn’t able to do it to save my life. But you taught me how, and now I’m confident with a pencil and a piece of paper. More than that, I’m confident with a brush in my hand and a canvas set before me. You helped me develop my artistic skills and the courage I needed to be confident in myself.

Dr. Cooper; I was in a musical senior year! I’ve never had to sing on stage, but that changed and guess who taught me to sing? You did! Thank you for pushing us when we didn’t think we sounded good. Thank you for your positive attitude every day we entered your classroom.

Mrs. Johnson; I wasn’t confident in my English skills when I began at TLS as a sixth grader. My fears were relieved when I was in your class because with you, English wasn’t that scary anymore. You would make us read out loud and we would take turns, and that did so much for my self-esteem and speaking. When we had to do Wordly Wise 3000, I was eager to learn new words, but afraid of being wrong. You helped me realize it’s okay if I’m wrong, as long as I learn from my mistakes. Thank you.

To the Kitchen Staff; Thank you, thank you, thank you for three years of delicious and nutritious food you provided for me. Thank you for your kindness and your commitment in keeping me fed, so I could keep on learning. When I was in Guatemala prior to being adopted, I would sometimes help the Chef. She would teach me things about food, sure, but most importantly about the world. One thing she taught me was never to take for granted the food I am given, because there are others who aren’t able to get any food at all. So I am thankful for you.

Marshall Nielsen ’14; Davidson College

1) The Lexington School prepares its students for college by fostering a culture of academic achievement and making the classroom a rigorous, yet supportive, environment. Because of my TLS teachers and classmates, I experienced growth in both my curiosity and love of learning. The Lexington School is a prime example of what any academic institution should be. In fact, when touring colleges, I found myself searching for places that were similar to TLS.

2) Out of all the fantastic opportunities TLS provides, one of my favorites was the Southwest Sequel through TLS Voyages. We were able to revisit Zion National Park to build upon past memories from our eighth grade trip. The Southwest trip is one of the most unforgettable and rewarding experiences a TLS student will have. Led by TLS faculty and staff, students learn the importance of teamwork, sacrifice, and how to look at the "big picture" (Shout out to Mr. J).

3) My advice to current TLSers would be, without a doubt, to cherish your teachers and the relationships you have with them. The faculty and staff at The Lexington School truly care about each and every student and are deeply passionate about developing not only your critical thinking skills but also your character. Enjoy the friends you make, as your relationships will be lifelong. Most of all, look around you and take it all in, so you can one day look back, wishing you could re-live your days as a student at TLS, like the rest of us.

Eliza Platt ’14; New York University Shanghai

1) As I’ve been in Shanghai, I continually think back on my times at TLS, both good and bad. The most help I received from the school was when Dr. Bonzo and Mrs. Jefferson helped me with my college applications. That program was the most incredible and insightful experience I had. It allowed me to look back on my time at both TLS and Woodford County High School. Additionally, my TLS education was the most advantageous to my college career. The foundations for writing and mathematics I built there have been the most important as I move on to my college career.

2) The teacher who most greatly impacted me was Dr. Bonzo. She wasn’t my advisor, but she was someone who truly understood me and allowed me a safe space to vent and rave about anything that may be bothering me throughout the day. When I attended TLS, we didn’t have a school counselor, and I feel Bonzo played this role for me. My parents are both educators at TLS, but I still consider her to be my school mother. She cared for me with an unbiased point of view and allowed me to see from more perspectives than just my own.

As for professors at NYUSH, my current favorite is Mo Laoshi (Chinese word for teacher). She’s my Chinese professor, and she is incredibly understanding and caring. She treats us as if we’re her children because when it comes to the Chinese language, we’re all still babies and learning at a kindergarten level. She’s incredibly helpful, and I’m excited to spend this semester in her classroom.

3) My only word of advice for current TLS classes would be to be uncomfortable. A mistake I’ve made in my life up until this point would definitely be staying in a comfort zone. I left Asheville School because I was uncomfortable with myself and the friendships I made at that time. I regret not staying for another year and trying to start fresh. Instead, I chose to be comfortable and follow the straight and narrow. The education I received from WCHS was more than adequate – I mean I made it here regardless – and my GPA was the best it’s ever been, but I hardly ever felt challenged in that setting. I’ve been trying to leave my set path for as long as I’ve been on it. Coming to China with no knowledge of the language and a limited, Americanized understanding of the culture was the craziest decision I could’ve made, and I decided to jump on it. I’ve never been the type to conform to the expectations that are set for me, and I can’t think of a place that is better suited to me than NYUSH. The people here are from all over the world. Some days I just sit outside and watch as my classmates pass me, and some days I count how many different countries and cultural backgrounds I’m surrounded by. It never fails to astound me that all our individual lives and experiences can mesh so seamlessly into the same learning environment. The fact that this is such an international university only goes to add to the various class discussions that take place. We’re all born in different circumstances, and the litany of perspectives on any given topic is always astounding. The myriad cultural exchanges that take place on any given day are an incredible thing to witness, and I’ve been so pleased with the entire experience thus far. I’m very proud of myself to have made it into such a prestigious educational facility, and I can’t wait to come home and tell y’all all about the experience.

Tom Polites ’14; Tulane University

1) TLS instilled in me a love of learning and quality study habits that not only helped me in high school but in my first semester of college as well. My teachers taught me to think critically, be attentive in class, and that learning can be fun if you go into it with the right mindset. A special thanks to Miss Cowling for introducing me to Greek history, my favorite subject, and one that I’m learning about extensively this semester.

2) Without a doubt, my favorite memory from my time at TLS is the eighth grade Southwest trip. You’re completely cut off from the outside world with only your friends and teachers, and it creates a bond among your classmates that’s truly special. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your TLS experience.

3) Enjoy the experience. TLS is a wonderful place with incredibly kind and caring people who want you to be the best person you can be. Cherish every moment. Throughout my time in high school, I was always thrilled to see my TLS teachers, and some of my best friends to this day are people I met in elementary school. There aren’t many schools quite like TLS.

Anabeth Psimer ’14; Morehead State University

1) Being a student in The Learning Center gave me the confidence that I could succeed in high school and college, even with dyslexia.

2) My favorite teachers were Mrs. Ezell, Mrs. Stefanick, and Mrs. Arbaugh.

3) My advice to other Learning Center students: Just because you learn in a different way doesn’t mean you aren’t smart and capable.

Woods Rouse ’14; Washington and Lee University

1) TLS prepared me for college by instilling a strong work ethic that is essential for a successful life and for the college workload.

2) My favorite memory at TLS was the last campfire on the Southwest Sequel. It solidified the bond with my classmates for really the rest of my life.

3) Enjoy your time at TLS. It is truly a special place. The friends and connections you make there will last forever, and you are being taught by some of the best teachers you will ever know.

Ben Schaeffer ’14; Swarthmore College

1) TLS prepared me to be organized, studious, and, above all, instilled a love for learning in me. In addition, the family atmosphere allowed me to form lifelong connections which will certainly prove beneficial as I take on college.

2) The first day of notes in Miss Cowling’s sixth grade class stands out to me because that would become my favorite class I took while at TLS. Besides that, I’ll never forget playing lacrosse and soccer with guys that I’m still best friends with today.

3) Cherish every moment and don’t take it for granted.

Ian Schaeffer ’14; Northwestern University

1) TLS instills a love for learning in its students from a very young age. This puts them on a path for success, as they not only have well-developed study habits, but they are also taking more advanced material.

2) My favorite TLS memory was playing on the lacrosse team and winning a couple of middle school championships.

3) Work hard, but don’t worry about your middle school grades. Forge good study habits.

McKinzie Smith ’14; Nash Academy Dog Grooming School

1) Before going to Nash Academy, I completed my vet assist certification at Locust Trace AgraScience School. The Orton-Gilligham techniques I learned at TLS helped when it came to learning medical terminology and abbreviations. I love working with animals and love the hands-on instruction.

2) Mrs. Jane Childers was important to us and to The Learning Center. I liked that The Learning Center hosted famous people with dyslexia who were successful not just in spite of, but because they learned differently and thought out of the box.

3) Take advantage of getting to know people different from you. They can enrich your life. Limiting who you associate with only shortchanges you.

Colton Warner ’14; Cornell University

1) I use my skills I gained at TLS every day. The sense of community and family at TLS made me excited to take risks and delve into the unknown. It's the habits instilled those years that have helped me the most. Just like at TLS, I feel comfortable asking my professors questions if I need help, and I always number my planner for the day. Another aspect of TLS that hasn't left me is the community. My best friends in life are all still from TLS, and it's been amazing to grow up with such an extraordinary, fun group of people.

2) One of my favorite memories from TLS was one day when everyone was tired in class, and Mr. Conley made us get up and run around the playground to pump us up. He was the best at making everyone excited to learn.

3) My advice for current TLSers is to be grateful for all the opportunities TLS has to offer and have a ton of fun!

Ellie Webb ’14; Georgetown University, School of Foreign Service

I miss my TLS family!

1) TLS gave me every basic tool for learning I needed going into high school. While some students were still trying to figure out how exactly to format an essay or how to make an organized bibliography, I was able instead to focus on developing my skills in other areas, as my TLS teachers had prepared me well. I was well prepared with other skills on a non-academic level as well, and, thanks to TLS, I’ve never been afraid to speak in public or try a new activity. Thanks to the eighth grade etiquette class, I will never forget the basic rules for a formal dinner. On a personal level, TLS gave me a great network of individuals to turn to whenever I need anything, as some of my closest friends today are fellow graduates.

2) One of my favorite times of the year at TLS was always the Foreign Language Fair. I loved the competition between the French and Spanish students, as well as the opportunity to learn more about other cultures. From the poster war to the scavenger hunt, there was always noise and excitement in the middle school wing. In retrospect, my excitement about this time of year is probably one of the things that led to my interest in pursuing international affairs and my love for the French language.

3) My advice to current TLSers is to keep in touch with the people in your class after you graduate! The people from my graduating class are some of the most passionate, kind, and driven people I know, and they are bound for great things. I know I will always have people to turn to and so many connections due to the network TLS provided me.

Ellie’s picture is from her Georgetown University Convocation ceremony, at the School of Foreign Service.

Allen Westerfield '14; Vanderbilt University

1) TLS taught me how to work hard. Knowing how to study hard and effectively made my high school career easier and allowed me to achieve my college goals.

2) Miss Cowling’s classes will always be some of the best I’ve ever taken. I will never forget the incredible teaching style she used; the way she told history as though it was a story was amazing. Dr. Bonzo’s class was another one that sticks out; some of the topics covered in that class were eye-opening, especially when we read Lord of the Flies.

3) My advice to current TLSers is to cherish and enjoy every moment at TLS. Keep in touch with friends you make, and learn everything you can from your teachers. You not only learn actual school material, but also a vast array of skills regarding study habits and other things that will help you for years after graduation.

Emerson White ’14; Brandeis University

I love staying in touch with TLS as much as possible, and I look back so fondly on my times there. Sending my love.

1) In my eyes, there is truly no better college preparation than attending TLS. TLS provided me not only with an amazing foundation and education, but also with important life skills that are crucial for college. TLS taught me how to study for exams, how to manage my time, and effectively balance being a student-athlete. Since I am a collegiate volleyball player, time management is a necessary skill I use every day. TLS also taught me that being a student always comes first and being an athlete is a privilege. I am loving school and volleyball, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without TLS.

2) When reflecting on my time at TLS, countless wonderful memories come to mind. My favorite memory, however, would have to be when I got the opportunity to return to TLS for the Southwest Sequel in 2016. The eighth grade Southwest trip was truly a life-changing trip, and when the opportunity to return to Zion was presented to me, I immediately jumped on it. The Johnson family, both Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, not only taught me amazing skills in the classroom, but they also taught me life lessons outside the classroom, and they have impacted my life in an amazing way. I will always be thankful to them both for taking 16 of my best friends and me back to one of our favorite places on earth to enjoy time together and reflect on the great gift of our friendship which TLS created for us.

3) To current TLS students, my biggest advice is to have fun. Enjoy your years at TLS because they truly will shape you as a person and give you friends that last a lifetime. Take in all the lessons both in and outside the classroom that your teachers give you. Your time at TLS will prepare you for not only high school but also for your years in college and beyond. Always thank your teachers, because they deserve it.