Letters from Alumni

Sometimes it takes leaving to understand and appreciate what you had. That is true with most situations in life, and it can be true of your days at SMCS. Alumni please email the webmaster with a brief note to your family at SMCS. Let those who made a difference in your life know about it.
 
 
From Jeff Gibb, Class of 1987
Dear Mrs. Laatsch: I don't know if you will remember me as I was only a student of yours the last two years before graduating SMCS in 1987. My name is Jeff Gibb. Recently, I met your headmaster Mr. Benscoter and his daughter. When I found out of his association with SMCS I had to ask about you. Mrs. Laatsch, I just wanted you to know how very much I appreciated and admired you. When I think of my twelve years in school and the teachers I had, I always think of you. You were my favorite teacher for so many reasons. I have always loved any kind of math and you made me love it even more. The way you taught it made so much sense to me. I believed that then, even as a kid, and I still do. I know it was important for you to know that we all understood, and you never stopped until it "clicked" for everyone. More than your brilliance with mathematics I admired you for your love for Jesus. There is a song called "Let others see Jesus in you." Well, Mrs. Laatsch, when I was one of your many students, I could see Jesus in you. I knew you had a love for all of us but you had a love for Jesus that was obvious. I know that everyone who has been lucky enough to be taught by you has come away with the same understanding as me. I just wanted to take a moment to thank you and let you know that you were, and still are admired and appreciated. I hope you and your entire family are doing well and continue to be blessed by God.
 
From Elizabeth Mitchell, Class of 2003
Just a little update on what I'm up to these days!  I spent a year and half living in Charlotte, NC going to the Aveda Institute for cosmotology school!  It was the best experience I've ever had!  I moved back to Birmingham the last week of July and started working right in the process of moving into my new apartment!  I'm now working at an Aveda Lifestyle Salon/Spa as one of their Purefessional Stylists!  It's crazy to think that I'm actually a career woman now!  I'm taking care of myself as well as a cat and a dog!  I actually pay my own bills!  I never thought this day would come!  But thanks to all those who helped me find myself!  I couldn't have done it without you guys!  If anyone wants to come get their hair done here's the info!!!...  It's Jucos Salon/Spa 408-9008!  Come get yourself pampered!  It's located right off 280 in the new shopping center with the Fresh Market and Starbucks!  This is probably the best thing that has ever happened in my life...besides graduating high school!  I never thought I'd do that and I did!...I never thought I'd be this responsible at such a young age!...but I'm doin the darn thing!  I'm actually proud of myself!  At work they know me as Liz...so if you call and want an appointment ask for Liz!  ;)  I love you guys dearly and it was so wonderful to see everyone again!  I'm going to be dropping by more often!

From Daniel Furlong, Class of 2003
SMCS has come a long way and today, more than ever, I am proud to be a graduate from there. I have realized since being in college and since the recent loss of my dad that I am truly thankful for the people that I came in contact with everyday at Shades Mountain. You know exactly what to look for in determining the criteria for the teachers that you get to teach there and that they are God centered. I am truly thankful for the God-fearing teachers that I had, because it seems as though at the University of Alabama it is hard to find teachers that fit the right criteria. Teachers at Shades Mountain are more than just teachers, they are teachers that teach you valuable principles that will carry a person throughout his or her life. At least, now more than ever I am realizing this. I am thankful for the education that I received from there and I pray that Shades Mountain continues to be blessed in every way.

A Grandmother (Millie Blackerby) shares her thanks
Dear SMCS: I thought you would like to know how well one of your alumni is doing after his first semester at UAB. I am Jacob Chapman's grandmother. I would like to thank you for always being such an encouragement to Jacob. Here are just a few of his accomplishments. He made the President's List with perfect scores (4.0) in all his subjects. He was awarded an internship (4 years) in mechanical engineering. He is using his good mind the Lord gave him to help others. He has many students whom he is tutoring in calculus and chemistry. A number of these students are Juniors. If they are unable to pay, he tutors for free. He realizes that his abilities are a gift from the Lord.

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