Rebecca is a proud graduate of Middletown High School.

This is what Rebecca said about her experience as a student in and graduate of public schools: "There are many teachers throughout my public school journey that have impacted me. Not only have they taught me to appreciate my education and the many opportunities I have been given, but they also helped me realize what I am capable of. They never gave up on me. They were always there when I needed help or just needed someone to talk to in general. I am where I am today because of their support and guidance. All of my past teachers taught because they wanted to make a difference in someone else's life, and that is something I try to focus on whenever I work with my kiddos in my classroom. I want to be the reason that helps children learn, grow and succeed. They all deserve to have someone that believes in them and pushes them to be the best that they can be just like I had. "

Nithya is a proud graduate of Cotton Hill Girls High School (Trivandrum, India).

This is what Nithya said about her experience as a student in and graduate of public schools: "Public schools are considered as the heart of a community, fostering connections between students, parents, teachers and local organizations. I have had the privilege of studying in an Indian public school and being a part of a public school system in the US.

The education system which is responsible for redefining a human being into some talented person who succeeds in accomplishing his/her dreams is a good education system and remarkably both the American education system as well as Indian education system has managed to do that many times.

I am proud to graduate from public school because it has provided me with a well rounded education, diverse perspectives and countless opportunities for my growth. Attending public schools has allowed me to learn from dedicated teachers, collaborate with students from different backgrounds and develop the skills and confidence needed in life. It has provided me a unique opportunity to interact with students from different backgrounds, cultures and most importantly socioeconomic statuses which has prepared me for a diverse and inclusive future.

Public schools are the largest alumni of any school system and I am proud to join the ranks of public school alumni who have and are making a positive impact in the world."

Wendy is a proud graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and Charter Oak State College.

This is what Wendy said about her experience as a student in and graduate of public schools: "My father was a teacher in a public high school. My appreciation for public education started at a young age due to this. I loved all that a public school education offered me and eventually offered my two children. This education reflected, and still reflects, the world around me and I believe helped me to be a more compassionate, involved member of my community."

Anthony is a proud graduate of Middletown High School and Capital Community College.

This is what Anthony said about his experience as a student in and graduate of public schools: "Mr. John Geary, my 8th-grade social studies teacher and Student Council Advisor when I was a student in the Middletown Public School System, profoundly impacted my educational journey. His dynamic teaching style and passion for history sparked my own love for the subject, leading me to pursue a bachelor's degree in history at Charter Oak State College. Beyond academics, Mr. Geary instilled a strong work ethic and a sense of civic responsibility through his role as Student Council Advisor. His mentorship not only shaped my academic pursuits but also inspired me to consider a career in education. Today, I credit Mr. Geary for the valuable life skills and aspirations that continue to drive my educational path.

My Public School experience with Middletown Public Schools shaped me into the well rounded individual I am today and why I work in the elementary school that shaped me during my formative years."

Sydney is a proud graduate of Middletown High School and Central Connecticut State University.

This is what Sydney said about her experience as a student in and graduate of public schools: "Growing up going through Middletown Public Schools is the reason why I came back to teach here. I had wonderful teachers and impactful experiences that made me who I am today. Erica Howe is the reason I became a teacher and I hope to make the same impact on my students as she did for me."

Jessie is a proud graduate of Albany (NY) High School, Fashion Institute of Technology, and Southern Connecticut State University.

This is what Jessie said about her experience as a student in and graduate of public schools: "I am deeply proud to be a product of public education -- from kindergarten to graduate school. Holding two degrees -- a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Science -- from two public universities will always be a point of pride. However, it was my four years at a large, comprehensive, urban high school that has had the greatest impact on my life -- particularly with regard to how I interpret and interact with the world. During those years, I became keenly aware of the existence of systemic disempowerment and dehumanization and how they are perpetuated or dismantled through the actions of those who work within the system. I learned just as much (if not more) in the hallways of my high school than I did in the classrooms. I will forever be grateful for those years as they are the reason I am a proud advocate, ally, and accomplice in work of making a more just and equitable future for all."