My Hyde School Experience: A Strong Foundation I Have Built Upon

A Hyde School Alumni, Parent & Staff Success Story

This reflection comes from Sarah Carlin, Class of 1980 — alumna, faculty, and parent. Her story shows how Hyde’s character-based education provided a foundation of integrity, resilience, and possibility that continues to influence her life and roles.

Hyde School Alumni, Parent & Faculty Story

I have been a student, faculty member, alumna, and an alumni parent at Hyde School. I have seen Hyde transform over the many years that I have maintained a connection with the school. While it still offers unique (less-traditional) opportunities for challenges and growth, it has also been willing to reflect and change its approach over the decades, changing with the times.

Sarah Carlin ’80 (center) in a Hyde School dance performance, 1978 — an early expression of the courage and community that shaped her foundation.

I have been a student, faculty member, alumna, and an alumni parent at Hyde School. I have seen Hyde transform over the many years that I have maintained a connection with the school. While it still offers unique (less-traditional) opportunities for challenges and growth, it has also been willing to reflect and change its approach over the decades, changing with the times.

When I was 15, I was enrolled in a private day school in NY, and I was pretty lost and unhappy. I couldn’t succeed at that school for various reasons. I didn’t pass some of my classes, my home life was very difficult, and I had a strong reluctance to ask any teachers for help. Although I had hidden talent as an athlete and performer, there was no way I was going to put myself out there and try out for anything at that school. I was afraid and full of self-doubt; afraid to fail more and confirm in my own mind that I was nothing special.

And then a tectonic shift happened in 10th grade. I went to Hyde School, where my character and potential were recognized and pulled out of the hiding places they had found. I was challenged on many levels. I began doing things I didn’t know I could do – like rowing a dory up the Maine coast, sharing my struggles with others, winning medals in sports, and performing solos in front of hundreds of people. I was encouraged by people who believed in my unique potential, and I began to see it myself. I started to dwell in the realm of possibility and regard challenges as exactly what they were - opportunities to grow.

Hyde School was a launching pad for me, and it helped me discover the resilience and integrity I’ve carried with me into adulthood, parenthood, and my career. I am forever grateful for the foundation that my Hyde School experience gave me.

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.