Since my freshman year in high school, I have questioned whether attending a small school is the best fit for me. As mentioned in previous columns, I attend Old Orchard Beach High School. Though it is a very small school containing about 250 students, it makes you feel as if you are apart of a big family.

After junior high, I had initially planned to attend Thornton Academy in Saco. I thought that if I attended a big school, I would have a more normal high school experience. In fact, I have seen many of my friends transfer to other schools for this reason.

What defines a normal high school experience?

Everyone’s interpretation will be different, however I picture big pep rallies filled with cheering crowds and cheerleaders performing.

I imagine that there will be endless opportunity to participate in different sports and extracurriculars.
I see thousands of kids swarming through the hallways to their next class.

After making my decision to stay in Old Orchard, I discovered that a normal high school experience can be had in a big or small school.

Replacing the large crowds of a bigger school stadium, are the cheers of a school with small town pride.

Instead of wondering if you’ll make the team at a bigger school, you are wondering if enough kids will go out for a team at a smaller school.

Instead of the thousands of kids scurrying to get to class, there are hundreds taking their time.
Looking at all the things that make up Old Orchard and its students, I am appreciative for the uniqueness of my school and the place I have in it.

I have a close bond with many of my teachers and am able to go to them for help as needed. 

I can maintain a balance of participating in various activities because my coaches and advisors are flexible with schedules.

Old Orchard is really more than just a high school; it is a family.

This is what made me decide to stay in Old Orchard rather than go to Thornton Academy. I was satisfied with all that I had accomplished already, and I wasn’t ready to leave it just yet. Of course, every school has its downsides.

Many of my classmates do not like to take advantage of the opportunity they are given to have a personalized education. 

I also find that there is frequent gossip about boyfriends and fights. 

Lastly, the ability to fit all the classes you want to take is limited because there are only so many teachers to teach certain classes. 

In the long run, this doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter because there are so many other good qualities about my school, and I am grateful for that. I feel that Old Orchard is preparing me for the next chapter of my life.
 
I have come to the conclusion that high school is really what you make of it. You don’t always have to go to a bigger school to gain a real high school experience.

School is always going to be stressful. It is always going to have its fun moments.

The way you choose to spend your time within your education is completely up to you, and as long as you are happy, it will not matter what school you attend.

Just remember to enjoy the ride.