Messer’s Story: Confidence, Character, and an Excellent Education

Messer has seen her children excel academically at HTS while becoming compassionate, caring individuals.

Messer is a parent of both an HTS alumnus (Dylon, ‘21) and current high school student (Aydon, ‘26) at HTS. Her son, Dylon, is now a student at Santa Clara University pursuing a degree in civil engineering. 

Messer’s children have experienced the full range of our holistic and inclusive education, starting in the HTS preschool and continuing through our elementary, middle, and high school programs. Messer has seen her children thrive both academically and socially, which she says is one of the most rewarding aspects of an HTS education. 

“Of course, we wanted our children to excel academically,” Messer told us, “but more importantly, we dreamed of them becoming empathetic and caring individuals who use their talents to make a positive impact on those around them. They have grown in empathy, compassion, and respect for others, and have developed great friendships in their time at HTS. Our children felt included and, in turn, learned how to include others.” 

Here’s a look into Messer’s story and the growth her children experienced at HTS.

What years did your children attend Hope Technology School and what are they doing now? 

My son started at HTS in preschool in 2007 and graduated with his high school diploma from HTS in 2021. He is now entering his junior year in the civil engineering program at Santa Clara University. My daughter began at the preschool in 2012 and will graduate from the HTS high school program in 2026. 

How has HTS helped your children academically? 

HTS offered a curriculum with ample support from teachers. The small class sizes and individualized attention helped our children excel in subjects that were difficult for them and further challenged them in their stronger subjects. This environment significantly boosted both their confidence and focus.

Which teachers, projects, or classes impacted your children the most?

My son wanted to take advanced math, and the individualized structure of HTS allowed him to start an advanced calculus class. He also enjoyed learning science in a hands-on physics class. Both experiences instilled a love for the STEM subjects which has inspired him to pursue it in college.

My daughter loves the book selections in her English classes as well as engaging in projects like learning how to invest in NASDAQ markets. She has also benefited from the  leadership elective, which has helped her grow in communication and teamwork skills as she’s contributed to organizing various school events. 

What would you like other parents to know about HTS?

Where schools can often become places of high stress and pressure to succeed, HTS stands out by providing an excellent education while nurturing the whole child. 

I attribute this to the exemplary teachers and staff at HTS. They don’t just teach the kids; they see them as individuals. They are patient, dedicated, and knowledgeable, striving to meet each student’s needs and help them reach their highest potential. I felt confident that my children would be guided academically and supported in their personal and social growth.