What Cannon Means to Me
#THISISHOME
by Sarah Leonard ’23
I’ve driven into Cannon’s familiar tree-lined drive most mornings for the past six years. First as a passenger in my parents’ car throughout Middle School, and now as a driver in eleventh grade. Each time I drive by the maroon brick buildings and white columns, similar thoughts fill my mind about how grateful I am for the people and opportunities Cannon has brought me. My first memories of Cannon are in the classroom. I remember Mrs. Northrup’s science class in seventh grade and the transformative learning experiences she led. From experiments in the lab to dissections, I was motivated to learn due to Mrs. Northrup’s passion for teaching. I remember debating Supreme Court cases in Mr. Cooke’s history class. I found my love for English in Mr. Smith’s ninth grade English class, where we discussed the philosophical themes in books that we read. I learned to enjoy learning purely for the sake of learning. I believe that Cannon has made me a critical thinker and has given me a desire to understand more about the world around me. While the academics at Cannon have prepared me very well to apply and attend college soon, more importantly, the curriculum has equipped me with the social and emotional skills I need to thrive in the world. At the time, I couldn’t appreciate the long written reflections I had to write during Middle School. In retrospect, I see how those activities have shaped me into the purpose-driven and intentional student that I am. Additionally, I have learned so much about myself as a student and person through the Clifton StrengthsFinder and personality tests that I’ve done in high school. Reflecting on the purpose of each of my experiences at Cannon has enabled me to understand the “why” behind the classes and extracurricular activities I engage in. Knowing my purpose motivates me to work harder and hopefully reach my full potential. My teachers value my personal well-being and health far more than they value me for my grade in their class. This is something I have really appreciated. As I’ve grown up alongside my peers, I have gone through significant life events like graduating eighth grade, learning how to drive, and beginning the college search process. I’ve had many difficult days at school, but I’ve always felt supported. There was never a doubt in my mind that someone on the other side of the door was happy to see me. The advisory system has also
allowed me to have an automatic community of peers, and an advisor who encourages me and desires to see me thrive. Another thing that I am so grateful for are all of the opportunities that I’ve been exposed to while attending Cannon. There is something for everyone here, and a hobby or club for every interest. I even started my own creative writing club to find a community of writers and continue enjoying my passion for fiction writing. I participate in a team of students called the Peer Support Team that learns about mental illness and how to support our peers as we all navigate life challenges. I have attended leadership lunches learning from successful members of the community about topics ranging from how to sustain lifelong friendships to the importance of grit. Cannon has enabled me with the opportunity to participate in seasons of volleyball, swimming, and track. I’ve made friends with students across all grade levels and teachers in many different departments. The last six years, I have been able to hone my passions and learn more about what interests me on a personal, academic, and athletic level. I have noticed that Cannon fosters a community of students eager to get involved. Although I always strive to work hard at school, there have been many opportunities for fun both in and outside the classroom. I always enjoy events like House Games and Project Wrap-In, but there are also moments of laughter within my classes every day. I love having the ability to have discussions with my friends during collaborative classes. I think that one of the things that enables me to thrive in school is being able to have some fun and lighten up in between the sometimes very challenging course work. Cannon has really begun to feel like home to me because of the relationships I’ve made, the classes I’ve become passionate about, and the extracurriculars I’ve been able to participate in that enrich my life. With the education I’ve received and the core values I’ve adopted, I know that I am prepared for whatever my future holds! Winter/Spring 2022 | CANNON | 5
