Empty Nests, Watery Eyes Among Parents of Class of 2013 as Move-In Day Arrives

by Charlotte Humes, Academy Avatar

Nobody said taking care of a child was easy.

For many parents, moving their child out of the house for the first time is one of the most difficult parts of the experience.  Luckily, despite a quick survey of the activity revealing a few less-than-dry eyes, the overall attitude of the families moving in members of Gatton’s Class of 2013 was clearly positive.

Mark Allen, father of Cecily Allen, commented on this contradiction.  “We’re excited but sad,” a combination I heard echoed by other parents.  He added that this was his daughter’s “first extended period away from home,” but that “coming to orientation and preview weekends really helped.”

The fact that this was the second child to move out the home, he said, “definitely makes it easier.”

Fran Hamilton, the mother of Gabrielle Hamilton, felt similarly.  A true veteran at this, with Gabrielle being her third, and final, child to move out of the house, she said that while she and her husband think it is “easier in some ways with each one you move out, and we are very excited for the great experience for our daughter, losing the youngest, the baby, is definitely toughest.”

She paused before adding, “We’re empty-nesters now.”  No matter how many times the parents had been through this, or what amount of help that offered, it was still a challenge.

Naturally, there was an element of nervousness in their good-byes.  Many parents mentioned that the distance would be difficult to handle. The most common concern was their child’s time management wanting to make sure that they “got their work done and studied.”  Of course, the news that the Academy provides students with the resources to learn about and develop study skills, along with the reminder of mandatory study hours, helped ease parents’ minds, at least on that account.

Despite having the same concerns as any other parent would, Rob Johnson, father of Justin Johnson, weighed in on such things.  “It’s a great opportunity, and I like that he’s moving in now, even though he’s younger.  It gives him a safety net, so he’s able to ask for help and have a second family here, much better than just dropping him off all on his own in two years.”

Other parents repeated his beliefs, expressing relief that they were leaving their children in capable hands.  While it may come as a surprise, age seemed to not bother most of the parents.  “Age doesn’t matter,” said Karen, Justin’s mother.  “He’s always been so mature, and he seems ready, so I’m not bothered.”  Mike and Trish Smith, Ethan’s parents, also mentioned that “the fact that he’s sixteen doesn’t really change anything,” and that, regardless, while “the Academy gives greater challenge and independence, it also provides a lot of support.”

After a quick meeting with the staff, parents were asked to say their final good-byes.  As children and their parents embraced, promising to keep in close contact, all were confident in their decision.  The Academy will provide these 78 students with a second family, along with amazing opportunities, and everyone seemed to recognize this.

The final sentiment I heard echoed all around?  “I love you,” said as parents let their child begin their next grand adventure.

Arrival of Class of 2013, Charlotte Humes, Class of 2013, Move-In, Parents