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Kate Deskey '17 Finds Her Voice at High Meadows

High Meadows School has been a joyful, transformative part of Kate Deskey’s life for as long as she can remember. From her earliest days in preschool to her eighth grade recognition ceremony, the school’s 42-acre campus was more than just a place to learn; it was a place to thrive, grow, and lead. Whether playing on the meadow, taking on new challenges in the classroom, or stepping into leadership roles, Kate embraced every opportunity High Meadows offered. Of all her experiences, what she cherished most was her time in the Middle Years Program.  
As a middle school student, Kate '17 found her voice and developed confidence that continues to shape her life today. High Meadows faculty and staff encouraged her to pursue new interests and discover her passions, and Kate immersed herself in extracurricular activities while stepping up as a leader. She served as Student Government president, speaking at school-wide events like community gatherings, and advocating for her peers. She also played in the High Meadows Band, learning the power of teamwork and collaboration. 

“Middle years was my favorite era of my HMS experience,” Kate stated. “I participated in many unique experiences and learned so much. In middle school, the schoolwork gets more intense, and I had opportunities to take advanced classes that challenged me and prepared me for high school.” 

Academically, Kate benefited from the school’s student-led conference model where fourth through eighth graders present their work to parents and teachers. Leading her conferences helped her develop a clear voice and sense of ownership over her learning. For many High Meadows students like Kate, this agency leads them to stand up for the people they care about and the societal issues that are close to their hearts. Early in her High Meadows career Kate started a no idling initiative with a friend.   

“When we began the campaign, we went through the carpool line to educate people on the importance of turning their engines off,” she recalled. “It showed me that even as a young student I could make a difference and that my voice mattered.” 
 
Another enjoyable aspect of Kate’s time at High Meadows was the rich outdoor education and deep connection to nature that the school fosters. From riding ponies on wooded trails to playing on the meadow and getting muddy after a rainstorm, Kate’s experience was filled with play and imagination. “The outdoor element was crucial,” she mentioned. “My teachers encouraged me to be who I wanted to be in all aspects of my education, but especially when learning outdoors. We did not worry about what others thought. We were busy playing, pretending, imagining, and being kids.” 



Today, Kate is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in journalism at Northeastern University. Her passion for storytelling, advocacy, and curiosity about the world began at High Meadows. Kate has been featured in multiple publications, including Storybench and The Huntington News. She hopes to use her voice as a producer, reporter, and writer to connect to audiences in ways that will raise awareness about community issues and impact lives.  

High Meadows School serves students age three through eighth grade and provides them with a rich, inquiry-based education. A student’s time at High Meadows is rooted in curiosity, creativity, and connection to the natural world. Joy, wonder, and discovery unfold in each classroom and across the school’s woods, forests, and meadows. Plan your visit today to hear about our educational philosophy, explore our campus, and make a special stop on the Lower Meadow, Kate’s favorite spot.  
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The High Meadows community celebrates and perpetuates each individual’s quest for knowledge and skill, sense of wonder, and connection to the natural environment. We empower each to be a compassionate, responsible, and active global citizen.
Age 3 through Grade 8 | Authorized IB PYP World School
1055 Willeo Road, Roswell, Georgia 30075 | (770) 993-2940 | info@highmeadows.org