By Evan H.
Mariah L. arrived at The Family Foundation School two months ago and was placed in Smith House. She celebrated her 13th birthday on October 22. Mariah grew up in Bermuda and before arriving at the school she was put into an alternative placement for six months.
She is the youngest person at FFS and the newest out of the five students in the Middle School. Although Mariah struggles with her new environment, she is able to express herself and work through hard situations. She admits to having a hard time connecting to her peers. “I don’t really like to have friends; I would rather isolate and be by myself,” she said.
Mariah has gotten close to several adults at the school. “I love Sharon in the kitchen and Larry Patrisso is like a dad to me,” said Mariah. “Also, Bob Runge is like my grandpa; he is a good man who helps me and I help him all the time.”
Rosie E., a senior member in Smith House, helps Mariah day in and day out to work on herself. “Mariah is very sweet and teaches me patience,” said Rosie.
Mike R., a 14-year-old from Syracuse, New York who arrived at FFS in April, has started a compost pile behind the Middle School. “I thought it would be fun to do in my spare time and I wanted to make an orchard after I saw Ann and Gerald Janauer’s house. Also, I would want this to be something that the school benefits from,” said Mike. Michael D., Drew L., and Troy P. of Smith House have helped Mike build a rock border around the compost pile.
Smith House is preparing for the Halloween costume party and dance. The theme of the party is monsters and Smith House hopes to express its originality with their own theme.
Smith House has two anchors, Sean C. and Larissa A., and is looking for more senior support. “Jens J. and Pierce S. have been consistently stepping up,” said Family Leader Caren Jacques. “Also, Pete and I are hoping that Blake J. starts to go in the right direction,” she added. Rylee B. and Nikki K. received buddy and shadowing this month.
