A Life-Changing Opportunity: How One School Builds A Family’s Confidence

Nestled in the heart of Cordele, Georgia, Crisp Academy has become more than just a school for Jaclyn and her children, Ella Kate and Jaxon; it has become a second home, a place of growth, faith, and unwavering support. Their journey to Crisp Academy was one they never thought possible, but it has turned into a blessing beyond measure.

Seven years ago, when Ella Kate was just starting kindergarten, Jaclyn never imagined private school would be an option. Living in Turner County, she assumed that financial constraints would make it out of reach. But when a friend, who was also a board member at Crisp Academy, mentioned the availability of scholarships, Jaclyn took a chance. Skeptical but hopeful, she applied to Arete, and to her surprise, she was accepted. That moment changed everything.

Now, Ella Kate is in sixth grade, and her younger brother Jaxon is thriving in second grade. Both children are on scholarships, an opportunity that has allowed them to learn and grow in a nurturing Christian environment. “It really changed everything for us,” Jaclyn shares. “I was stressing so much about wanting them in a different school setting, a more Christian-centered environment, because the world has changed so much. It makes me feel so much better knowing they are in a school that reinforces the values we hold dear.”

Since starting at Crisp Academy, Jaclyn has noticed a remarkable transformation in her children. They come home excited about what they’ve learned, eagerly reciting Bible verses and sharing lessons on kindness and faith. The school’s emphasis on spiritual growth has drawn them closer to God, and it warms Jaclyn’s heart to see their enthusiasm. “It excites them, and that excites me,” she says with a smile.

Beyond faith, Crisp Academy has nurtured their academic confidence and personal growth. With smaller class sizes and individualized attention, both Ella Kate and Jaxon have flourished. Jaclyn, who teaches pre-K in the public school system, has seen firsthand the distractions and challenges that larger school settings can pose. “The smaller setting here has been such a blessing,” she explains. “There are fewer distractions, and the kids can focus better. At Crisp, I know my kids are in a safe, supportive environment.”

One of Jaclyn’s proudest moments as a mother was watching her children participate in the annual “See You at the Pole” prayer event. Both Ella Kate and Jaxon volunteered to pray in front of their peers, standing confidently at the microphone. Teachers sent Jaclyn videos and pictures of the moment, and she was overwhelmed with pride. “That just really warmed my heart,” she recalls. “Their confidence has grown so much. I don’t think they would have done that in another school.”

Crisp Academy has also fostered their love for the arts and athletics. Ella Kate thrives in her art classes, learning new techniques and expressing her creativity. She has also embraced sports, recently joining the school’s new middle school tennis team. Jaclyn, who played tennis growing up, beams with pride as she watches her daughter step onto the court. Both children participate in basketball and soccer through the local recreation department. “They love sports,” Jaclyn says. “It’s wonderful that they get to experience so much.”

When asked about the teachers who have made the biggest impact, Jaclyn and her children are quick to name Miss Joy, their Bible teacher. “She has really influenced them,” Jaclyn says. “They love her, and she’s helped deepen their faith.” 

For Jaclyn, the ability to send her children to Crisp Academy is nothing short of a miracle, made possible by the generosity of donors who believe in the school’s mission. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” she says earnestly. “Without this opportunity, I don’t know where we’d be. It has truly changed our lives.”

Every year, as she reapplies for the Arete scholarship, Jaclyn holds her breath, praying they will continue to receive the support they need to stay at Crisp Academy. She dreams of one day being in a position to give back, to help another family experience the same life-changing opportunity that was given to her.

As she looks ahead, Jaclyn’s hopes for Ella Kate and Jaxon remain steadfast. “I want them to grow in confidence, to be leaders, to not be afraid to share their faith,” she says. “I hope they continue to excel academically, spiritually, and in all aspects of life.”

Through faith, community, and the unwavering support of Crisp Academy, Jaclyn’s children are not just receiving an education; they are thriving, surrounded by love, encouragement, and endless possibilities.