WOODLAWN ALUMNI

Michael Shepherd remembers the day he first experienced Woodlawn School. He had visited as a third grade student considering application for the following year. "Right away I saw how fun the classes were, and that they were learning high-level stuff," he recalls. "They were doing division -- and we weren't doing that in my old school." He knew right then, he says, that he wanted to attend Woodlawn. Since then, he has had a great experience. "I like the teachers a lot," he explains. "I like the projects, and I like the field trips. I always want to get to school early when we're having a field trip!" Some of his favorite memories over the years include a day trip to the Biltmore House, and overnight field trips to Atlanta and Camp Tekoa. He is grateful for the friends he has made at Woodlawn, "and the best part is, there's all types of people at Woodlawn. Some are outgoing, some are not -- but they're still cool -- and some are cool but they can still get down to business when it comes to schoolwork. You can be friends with everyone." Michael's sister Micah, one year younger than he, commutes with him every morning and evening to and from their Charlotte home. "Sometimes it can take 45 minutes," Michael says, "but it's worth it."

Michael is currently a senior at Woodlawn.