Kwame “KJ” Hymes

March 02, 2015

Saint Mary’s Catholic High School
9th Grade

My name is KJ Hymes and I am a freshman at St. Mary’s Catholic High School.  I chose to attend St. Mary’s because of the strong academic focus, as well as the excellent sports program.  At St. Mary’s, I have an opportunity to be part of a tradition that has been built over the past 98 years, and the opportunity to challenge myself.  Being at St. Mary’s has allowed me to have a better bond with my teachers and classmates, thanks to having small classrooms and a better environment than my previous schools.  I feel like I get the attention that I need from my teachers and have really gotten to know all of the other students. Many of our classes are structured around discussion, so you get to hear people’s viewpoints and opinions as the teachers lead us through the lessons.  It is a really great way to learn and keeps class very interesting.

When I wake up in the morning, I know that I have to work hard and stay focused on my classes and for my team.  I really enjoy playing varsity basketball, working as part of a team, and striving to be a better leader on and off the court.

Next year, as a sophomore, I’m looking forward to taking an integrated English and history class. In this class, we’ll use research and literature to really explore the history of ancient civilizations and study how America and other countries rose to power. I will also be taking a speech and debate class that will help me with public speaking and will ultimately help me reach my goal of becoming a sports broadcaster.

After St. Mary’s,  I hope to attend a four-year college where I can excel as a student athlete, playing basketball and working towards a career in the NBA.  I am thankful for the opportunities that have been given to me, and the chance to go to St. Mary’s.  I know that I am being prepared to meet my personal and professional goals, and I am excited to take on those challenges!

The Arizona Leadership Foundation proudly provides scholarship assistance to private schools and Lexie’s Law schools throughout Arizona with no preference to religious or political affiliation. We believe parents should have a choice when it comes to the education of their children! The Arizona Leadership Foundation is able to offer scholarships through Arizona’s Corporate Income Tuition Tax Credit (CTC) Scholarship Program and the Disabled/Displaced Corporate Income Tax Credit Program. These Arizona programs are education plans designed to help Low-Income families and families with Disabled/Displaced children obtain the best education for their children.

St. Mary’s is Arizona’s first Catholic high school and has been a part of central Phoenix since 1917, just 5 years after Arizona became a state!  St Mary’s is a multi-cultural, economically diverse, centrally-located school that offers a traditional setting with a primary emphasis on the spiritual, academic, social and personal growth of each student; it boasts a 15:1 student/teacher ratio.  St. Mary’s offers a diverse campus with 45% of the student population being Hispanic and 10% being African American.