My Decision – A Hyde School Alumni Story

A Hyde School Alumni Success Story

This reflection comes from Jeff Jennings, Hyde School Class of 1972. His story shows how one decision at Hyde — to stay, to try — transformed a troubled teen into a grounded adult, guided by values, athletics, and community.

Hyde School Alumni Story

Jeff Jennings ’72 — how one choice at Hyde School changed his path toward stability, growth, and community.

I arrived at Hyde School for summer school in 1968. I had no idea what to expect when I got there. It became very clear after awhile that I didn't like being there. My parents found out about Hyde School from friends and decided it would be a good place for me. I was hanging around with some kids who were not on a positive trajectory. One of them eventually died from a drug overdose. It wouldn't be too much of an exaggeration to say that I spent the first two years doing every thing I could to get kicked out. I was doing so poorly academically that I was going to have to repeat my sophomore year (I became the first 5 year student) .

It was at this point that I was pulled into a meeting with a faculty member and told that it was my decision whether I wanted to stay at Hyde School or leave. I remember sitting there for what seemed like eternity while he sat staring at me waiting for my answer. I finally decided that I wanted to stay, At the time things were not going well at home, my parents were going through a divorce and it seemed like everything was falling apart. Hyde School provided stability and continuity. Being allowed to make this decision was a major turning point for me. Of course my being allowed to stay came with conditions which I had to agree to. I decided that I would give it my best shot.

The next three years despite the turmoil at home were important years.

I met friends that I still stay in touch with today, I improved academically and participated in athletics, running cross Country and Track. It's hard to imagine any other school giving me that opportunity to grow out of the troubled young kid I was when I arrived. The values that Hyde School instilled in me during those years have always served me as guide post along the path of life. For that I am very grateful to Joe Gauld and the faculty, most of whom were just out of college themselves.

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.