“She feels welcomed, seen, and supported. She talks about her teachers with genuine admiration and has already built friendships that make her feel connected. The small, nurturing environment has helped her settle in quickly.” – Hope Smart, Jersey City High School Parent
Q: What led you and Makenzie to choose the French American Academy High School?
We chose the French American Academy because we wanted Makenzie in an environment that would challenge her academically while nurturing her curiosity and confidence. The school’s commitment to global education, strong values, and individualized attention really stood out to us. We felt FAA would give her both the structure and the freedom to grow into a thoughtful, well‑rounded young woman.
Q: As a non-French-speaking family, how did you and Makenzie feel about joining a bilingual school? What helped you both feel comfortable with that choice?
At first, we were a little nervous about entering a bilingual environment, especially since none of us speaks French. But the warmth of the staff, the reassurance that students grow at their own pace, and the school’s strong support systems made us feel confident. Makenzie was excited about the idea of learning a new language, and seeing her enthusiasm helped us embrace the opportunity.
Q: How has Makenzie adjusted to her new school environment and the FAA community so far?
Makenzie has adjusted beautifully. She feels welcomed, seen, and supported. She talks about her teachers with genuine admiration and has already built friendships that make her feel connected. The small, nurturing environment has helped her settle in quickly.
Q: Can you share an example of something Makenzie has said or done this year that made you feel proud of her growth?
One moment that made me especially proud was when she became an Eco-Delegate. She took on that leadership role with so much seriousness and pride. She has become more conscious of her responsibility to care for the earth, reminding us at home to recycle, reduce waste, and make sustainable choices. Seeing her step into leadership while also developing a sense of global responsibility has been incredibly meaningful.
Q: What has been the most positive part of your FAA experience so far, for Makenzie and for you as a parent?
For Makenzie, the most positive part has been feeling genuinely supported by her teachers. For me, it’s communication and transparency. I always feel informed, included, and confident that she is in a place where people truly care about her development.
Q: Is there a class, project, or activity that Makenzie has especially enjoyed or talked about about at home?
She talks a lot about her language classes and how proud she feels when she understands something new in French. She also enjoys hands‑on projects that allow her to be creative and express her ideas.
Q: The IB approach encourages students to be curious, reflective, and globally minded. Have you noticed any small ways Makenzie is developing those qualities at FAA?
Definitely. One example is her Design class, where she created a shirt using recycled materials for our family business. She approached the project with creativity and intention, thinking about sustainability, branding, and how to repurpose materials responsibly. It showed curiosity, problem‑solving, and a growing awareness of her impact on the world, exactly the kind of global‑mindedness the IB approach encourages.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time, or what brings you joy outside of parenting?
I enjoy creating programs for youth, reading, and finding quiet moments to recharge. I also love anything that allows me to be creative, whether it’s planning events, writing, or exploring new ideas.
Q: What’s something your family enjoys doing together, weekend activities, travel, or a special tradition?
We love exploring new places together, even if it’s just a new restaurant or a different part of town. We also enjoy movie nights and cooking meals as a family. Those simple moments help us stay connected.
Q: What is something that inspires you, whether a quote, a belief, or an experience that shapes how you show up as a parent or how you view the world?
I’m inspired by the belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. A quote I love is, “To whom much is given, much is required.” It reminds me to lead with compassion, purpose, and responsibility both as a parent and in my work with youth.
