Joseph P. '22's Journey from Jamaica to High Meadows

For a year, Joseph, a member of the Class of 2022, was part of the High Meadows community through a computer screen. It was an unusual start for the seventh grader, but when he arrived at HMS for eighth grade, he fully experienced everything the school’s woods, forests, and meadows had to offer. 

“It was strange meeting my teachers and friends online, but they made it feel normal and easy, even though I was in a different country,” Joseph said. “When I came to America, my peers at High Meadows welcomed me right away and helped me adapt to a new culture. It felt like I had a mini family supporting me.” 

At High Meadows, Joseph quickly became involved on campus, diving into coursework and exploring the variety of classes available. 

“I loved the many opportunities the school gave me as a student. You get to choose your own classes, and they’re designed to prepare you for high school. After I graduated from HMS, my classes felt easy because I had already learned so much. The teachers do an excellent job preparing students for the future.” 

Now a junior at a local high school, Joseph has his sights on a career in computer science with the goal of becoming a software engineer. He credits his passion for technology to HMS due to the way the teachers integrate tech into learning while also fostering creativity.  

“A lot of our work was research-based and done using technology,” he recalled. “The 3D printing mini-course in the Tinker Shed taught me how to be creative and learn through hands-on projects. Computer science lets me combine that creativity with my love for tech.” 

Joseph also appreciated the supportive classroom environment and the way his teachers encouraged him to push himself. “The classroom time was a highlight of my High Meadows experience,” he said. “Learning was fun and engaging. The teachers challenge you, but they also support you. They teach in a way that makes you want to try your hardest and not give up.” 

Beyond the classroom, Joseph experienced joy spending time outdoors and working in the barnyard. “Every time we drove up the driveway entrance to the school, I looked forward to being outside,” he said. “At other schools, you’re in a building for eight hours a day, and you don’t get to connect with nature. HMS is intentional about giving you that connection. It helped refresh my mind and made learning in a traditional classroom even better. I also loved caring for the chickens. Working with the animals and barn staff taught me a lot about teamwork and responsibility.” 

Joseph knows firsthand the value of a High Meadows education and how it shapes students both academically and personally. When asked to tell prospective families, he put it simply: “It is a great place with teachers who know each student as an individual. The faculty care about students’ interests and feelings and make sure they feel included. It doesn’t matter if a student is coming from a different school, a different state, or even a different country like me — they’ll make them feel at home.” 

Joseph’s journey is just one example of how High Meadows School prepares students for success in high school and beyond. If you’re looking for a place that values creativity, hands-on learning, and a strong sense of community, we invite you to visit our 42-acres of historic property and experience for yourself everything HMS has to offer. Schedule a tour today and see how High Meadows can inspire your child’s educational journey.