We’re proud to share a heartfelt reflection from a Calais Alumnus, Jean-Pierre Falquez, aka JP, as he leaves Calais and begins his next chapter. In his own words, JP shares his Calais Story: the lessons he’s learned, plus some sage advice for the students who will follow in his footsteps. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do. Thank you, JP, for taking the time to tell your story so beautifully and honestly—and for offering such thoughtful words of encouragement to your fellow Cougars.

I first started at Calais in 10th grade. When I arrived, I was nervous because I didn’t know what to expect. At my previous school, I didn’t have many friends, and I felt like I wasn’t getting what I wanted or needed academically, socially, mentally, and emotionally. But when I came to Calais, something changed. I finally found a place where I could be myself. I met people who truly appreciated me and supported me, and I began to gain the confidence that I always had within me.

After graduating from 12th grade in 2022, I joined the 12+ program, and I truly enjoyed my time there. I experienced many ups and downs, but through all of them, I received so much support from the people around me. The 12+ program gave me opportunities to grow, become more independent, and discover more about myself and what I am capable of.

There are so many memories from my time at Calais that I will always cherish. I will especially miss being part of last year’s play, Fiddler on the Roof, my Work Based Learning internship, and going to college- where I met many wonderful friends and took classes that gave me new experiences. All of these experiences helped me realize how much I had grown since the person I was when I first walked through the doors of Calais. Looking back, I realize that Calais was more than just a school to me. It became a place where I felt accepted, supported, and comfortable being myself. The friendships, experiences, challenges, accomplishments, and lessons I gained here helped shape the person I am today.

Now that I am moving forward into a brand-new chapter of my life, I know that saying goodbye is not easy. At the same time, I am excited about what the future holds. I will always carry the memories I made at Calais with me, and I will never forget the people who helped make my time here so special.

I want to leave one last message specifically for the 8th graders, 12th graders, and 12+ students who will be graduating this upcoming school year:

To The 8th Graders: You are about to begin a new chapter as you move into high school. It may feel exciting, scary, or even overwhelming at times, but don’t be afraid of what is ahead. Take the opportunity to meet new people, try new things, and discover who you are. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Give yourself time to grow and become the person you want to be.

To the 12th graders: This is your final year of high school, so make the most of it. Enjoy the moments you have with your friends, teachers, and classmates because those moments will become memories before you know it. Think about what you want your future to look like, whether that means college, work, or another path. Whatever you choose, believe in yourself and be proud of how far you have come.

To the 12+ students: I know firsthand how special the 12+ program can be. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Learn, grow, make friends, become more independent, and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. You will have ups and downs, but those experiences can teach you more about yourself and show you what you are capable of. Most importantly, don’t underestimate yourself.

And to all of you, I want to leave you with one message: It’s not just about dreaming of the future, making plans, and setting goals. It’s about taking the steps to make those dreams and goals happen. Dream about your future. Make your plans. Set your goals. But don’t stop there. Take the steps to turn those dreams and goals into reality. Things may not always go according to plan, and there may be times when you feel like giving up, but don’t let those moments define you. Keep moving forward, learn from your experiences, and believe that you are capable of more than you may realize.

I hope that when your time at Calais eventually comes to an end, you will be able to look back on your experiences with the same appreciation and gratitude that I have. Make memories, appreciate the people around you, take chances, and enjoy the journey because your time here goes by faster than you think.

Thank you to all the students and staff who have been part of my journey. Thank you for the support, encouragement, laughter, friendships, opportunities, and memories. Each of you has played a part in my experience at Calais, and I will always be grateful for that.

Leaving is difficult, but I know that I am ready for the next chapter of my life. I may no longer be a student at Calais, but the lessons I learned and the memories I made here will always be a part of me.

Calais will always have a special place in my heart. As I move forward, I am excited to see what the future has in store for me. I plan to continue my education by going to college, while also working and gaining more experience as I begin to build my future. I know there will be challenges along the way, but I am looking forward to learning, growing, becoming more independent, and discovering new opportunities.

My future plans are also a reminder of why my time at Calais has been so important to me. The confidence, independence, and experiences I gained here have helped prepare me for this next chapter. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I am excited to take what I have learned from Calais and use it as I continue moving forward.

-Jean-Pierre Falquez, Calais School Alumnus

JP’s journey reminds us that growth doesn’t always happen all at once. Sometimes there are bumps in the road disguised as lessons—challenges to overcome, opportunities to take, friends to make, and confidence to build along the way. We’re incredibly proud to have been part of JP’s journey and can’t wait to see where his next chapter takes him. And remember, JP, once a Cougar, always a Cougar!