Harmony Heights School

Harmony Heights truly saved my life. I had been dealing with school phobia, depression, and severe social anxiety for most of my life and had been out of school for two-and-a-half years when I entered Harmony Heights. I had tried a number of other schools, but none had worked out--I was looked at as obstinate and stubborn, rather than fearful and depressed. I had been made to feel as if there was something wrong with me for being different. At Harmony Heights, I was treated as an individual. My therapist and the school staff worked with me to get me back to school in a way that fit my needs and didn't overwhelm me. They supported my family and helped them to understand what I was dealing with, which was a huge change for me and made a tremendous difference. From therapists to teachers to administrative staff, I was treated with such kindness, caring, sensitivity, and warmth. Even staff members who didn't know me very well cheered my victories and encouraged me as I gradually became able to attend school full-time. Their pride when I actually won a perfect attendance award touched me deeply. I also felt a great deal of encouragement from my peers--knowing that the other students were there just like me because they also had their own struggles was a great leveling factor. It gave girls who may have appeared to be complete opposites the ability to find common ground and even friendships where they might not have in another environment. Harmony is truly a family, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to have made some of my closest friendships there. In addition to those friendships, I have also carried with me the tools, skills, and coping mechanisms I was taught at Harmony, which I've been able to apply to other challenges I've faced in my adult life. And finally, I feel strongly that the education I received at Harmony gave me a solid grounding for the future--I was able to go on to receive my bachelor's degree on a full academic scholarship and graduate summa cum laude, and I credit the quality teachers at Harmony with preparing me to face the challenges of higher education and to thrive. I will never stop counting my blessings for having had the opportunity to attend Harmony Heights and will always have immeasurable gratitude to their amazing staff for helping me to be the person I am today.

This school has provided me with the support and environment I needed. The staff is wonderful and provide a nurturing environment.