From Brazil to a Magical Place – A Hyde School Parent Story of Growth and Gratitude

A Hyde School Parent Reflection from the Global Community

This story comes from an international Hyde School parent whose family journey—from Brazil to Maine—reveals the transformative power of Hyde’s character-based education.

Hyde School Parent Story

Pedro and Claudia sharing the joy of being at Hyde School — a place of great blessings, growth, and transformation.

My name is Claudia, and I am Pedro Mota’s mother. This is Pedro’s second year as a student at Hyde School, where he is currently a junior.

From the very first day we discovered Hyde—online, on December 22, 2023—we fell in love. Hyde became our Hogwarts, our magical place.

Pedro began classes in September 2024 as a sophomore, and he was thrilled to be part of that world. So was I. From the beginning, we knew it would be an amazing journey, but only after classes started and the connection between school, student, and family grew closer did I truly understand how special Hyde School is.

Never—not even in my wildest dreams—could I have imagined that there were people doing what Hyde does. The educational system in Brazil is very different from the American one, I knew that. But what I am experiencing as a parent of a Hyde student goes far beyond differences in teaching methods.

I realized that Hyde School is not only interested in academic excellence, but in forming better human beings. And how much the world needs that.

In October 2024, I had the privilege of participating in my first Family Learning Center (FLC) and Fall Family Weekend. I never imagined what I would experience there. Through that weekend—and only because of the work Hyde does—I was able to access places in my son’s heart and mind that I would never have reached otherwise.

Pedro felt comfortable and confident enough to open up in ways he never had before. I discovered a beautiful side of my son that, despite living with him every day for 16 years, I had never truly known. It was the most wonderful gift. I cried constantly—tears of joy, fulfillment, and gratitude.

During Discovery Group meetings, we also witnessed the extraordinary blossoming of another student. In just one weekend, we saw her transform before our eyes. There are no words to describe the greatness of this work.

The teachers and staff at Hyde truly know each student. Not just their names or nationalities—they know their strengths and challenges deeply, often even better than parents do. Hyde highlights each student’s strengths so they never forget who they are, while guiding them with care and purpose through their challenges.

In my experience, Hyde School seeks to make each student the protagonist of their own life—to recognize their gifts, responsibilities, and purpose in the world. And if students forget those gifts, Hyde helps them rediscover them within themselves.

The world would be a better place if more people took responsibility for their own lives, without blame or victimhood. At Hyde, with the right words, actions, and example as their magic wands, these educators—these wizards and angels—awaken the most beautiful parts of every student.

To understand Hyde, one only needs eyes to see.

Thank you, Hyde School. I will be forever grateful for everything you are doing for my beloved son.

The Lasting Impact of a Hyde School Education

Hyde Voices shares authentic perspectives from Hyde School alumni, parents, and staff. Each story demonstrates how Hyde School’s focus on truth, growth, and character creates lasting change. Explore more Hyde School stories, share your own reflection, or learn more about the school itself at the Hyde School website.