A True Transformation - A Hyde School Alumni Story

A Hyde School Alumni Success Story

This reflection comes from Melinda Baxter, Class of 1989. Her story shows how Hyde School’s structure, community, and values empowered her to turn her life around — from anger and insecurity to leadership, courage, and ongoing connection.

Hyde School Alumni Story

Hyde School girls’ team after winning MAISADs 2024 — a celebration of the values that shaped Melinda Baxter ’89’s transformation.

I came to Hyde School in 1985 lost, angry, insecure and scared. Forcibly brought there by my parents who didn’t know what else to do after I was not accepted back by my private school in NJ after a year of very poor behavior to say the least! I spent my entire summer on work crew and back then it was very tough!! I needed all of that and then some to begin to turn my life around. A kinder, gentler Hyde School would not have worked for me. My parents were fully supportive, even giving Malcolm Carte Blanche. Those days are gone!

Thanks to my parents buy in to Hyde’s family program I knew I was staying there for the duration of high school. Eventually my sophomore year I got sick of being in trouble and started doing the basics. Over the ensuing years my life improved in myriad ways. I started to believe in myself and my potential. Athletically I was having great success and academically I was making strides. My desire to improve in soccer had me putting in the time over summers at camps and on my own. I made some incredible friendships and felt connected to many faculty members who saw my potential long before I could and wouldn’t quit on me!

It’s largely thanks to them that I am who I am today. I could name many but the top ones were Paul Hurd, Laura and Malcolm Gauld, Gary Kent, Ken Grant and Bud Cox. I did an elective post grad year that changed me forever. I lead with integrity and courage and finally stopped hiding! That year was a total game changer for how I entered college and the rest of my life. Truth and integrity have been at the forefront ever since. I endeavor to take risks regularly and know the value of doing so thanks to my time at Hyde and having to do things like auditions and using my voice to address others with truth, and be vulnerable.

That’s one of my biggest takeaways. If it weren’t for Hyde School I might not have survived, truly. It was a massive gift, albeit not an easy one at all. I am forever grateful for that time and continue to stay connected to the school. As of last year I’m back coaching the girl’s soccer team. I met my husband teaching there and my daughter was born on campus in our house at the time. The only Hyde School home birth!!

Melinda Baxter, Class of 1989

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.