From Uncertainty to Confidence: How One School Transformed a Family’s Future

In a quiet, close-knit town in Southwest Georgia, a small but remarkable school stands as a beacon of hope and growth for its students. For Elizabeth and her husband Jonathan, the decision to send their children, Canaan and Esther, to Terrell Academy was not just about education; it was about giving them a foundation of love, safety, and encouragement to shape them into the people they were meant to be. 

“It’s a Christian environment, it’s safe, and the academics are wonderful,” says Elizabeth. “The reputation drew us in. And then, when we met the staff, we fell in love. And to see how much my kids have grown is amazing.”

When Elizabeth and Jonathan first visited the school, the warmth of the staff enveloped them. The teachers weren’t just professionals; they were passionate mentors dedicated to shaping young minds. It wasn’t just about test scores or curriculum but about creating a culture of discipline, respect, and joy—a place where students sit attentively, respect their teachers, and grow into kind, intelligent individuals. 

Elizabeth shares how Terrell Academy has encouraged Canaan and Esther to learn: “They're free to be themselves, but also it's not indoctrinated in them. It's a safe learning environment where they can learn, grow, and be happy and healthy.”

Now, in second grade, Canaan has flourished in ways his parents could have only dreamed of. With a 4.0 GPA, he excels in his studies, particularly in math, a subject he once overlooked. He is also a dedicated athlete, playing baseball, basketball, and football. His teachers see his potential, and their encouragement has fueled his thirst for knowledge and success. 

“He excels because he’s happy. This is a great opportunity for him, and who knows what he’ll become when he grows up,” shares Elizabeth. 

 His younger sister, Esther, is a social butterfly, bursting with personality. The shy little girl who once clung to her mother’s side has transformed into a vibrant and creative child, finding her passion in art and dance. 

“She’s come out of her shell so much, which is a blessing. We saw an immediate change in her since coming to Terrell because the environment was better,” says Elizabeth. 

Each day, she brings home projects that are a testament to the joy and inspiration she finds within the school’s walls.

Elizabeth and Jonathan feel reassured that they made the right decision, knowing their children are in an environment that both educates and nurtures. A child’s learning environment is not just about books and lessons but about feeling safe, valued, and empowered to dream. 

Elizabeth reflects on how her children have changed while attending Terrell Academy: “Happy children excel, while unhappy children struggle. At Terrell Academy, Canaan and Esther are not just students; they are part of a family that celebrates their successes, supports them in their struggles, and fosters their growth in every way possible.”

Elizabeth and Jonathan instill in their children the belief that nothing is out of reach, and their school reinforces that belief every single day. For their family, Terrell Academy is not just a place of learning. It is a foundation, a guiding light, and a second home. In a world that can be unpredictable and unkind, they have found solace in knowing that their children are growing up in a place that nourishes their hearts, minds, and spirits. Elizabeth believes that a child’s learning environment is not just where they go to school; it is where they learn to believe in themselves, discover their passions, and begin the journey of becoming who they are meant to be.

Every day, as they drive past the school on their way home, they are reminded of the choice they made, a choice that has proven to be life-changing. Terrell Academy is more than just a school; it is a sanctuary where children can thrive in a nurturing Christian environment, where academics are rigorous yet supportive, and where safety, both physical and emotional, is a priority. 

Elizabeth expressed her gratitude to the teachers and staff: “Thank you for being genuine and transparent. Thank you for loving my kids, helping them grow, and being there when I can’t be.”