Rage with Niveen Kattan: Views about the Smith community

Halls of Smith filled with real people

By NIVEEN KATTAN

It really bothers me that people continually put down Smith High School. Whenever I'm asked what school I go to and I mention Smith, I receive this "I'm sorry" look. There are a lot of positive things gong on here. In fact, there's much more good than bad.

For instance, we have a bunch of caring teachers and administrators, and we have a diverse student body. How many other schools in Guilford County can share in the same degree of cultural diversity as Smith? My guess is none.

Going to Smith and interacting with people from different backgrounds is extremely positive. The world isn't predominantly one race, ethnic group or religion. You can't expect to live in an ehtnically homogenous community in contemporary America.

At Smith everyone is acknowleged for what you do, not what you look like. This is very different from other schools where it's who you hang out with or how much money you have that determines your value. Our school doesn't have a popular clique based on money or any other superificial values. Your popularity is based upon individuality, your uniqueness, who you are. At BLS we take the time to recognize and respect the person, not the image.

One transfer student mentioned he enjoyed Smith because "it's real life." I agree. There's no candy coating when it comes to the school's atmosphere. The teachers give it to you like it is and help you when you need it. The students are open-minded and allow you to face and repair your personal flaws. Nobody puts on a front. People are real here at Ben L. Smith.

Niveen Kattan is a junior honors student at Smith High School.

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