A Darlington student is made up of many things. None of which is average. We help our students develop their interests, passions and pursuits, because we believe every individual has something to contribute. We also believe that only when you're 100% you, are you 100% Darlington.
Here at Darlington, every student’s path is different. We think that's a good thing.
Let’s get to know Kimberly Johnston, a four-year day student from Calhoun, Ga., who recently served as company manager for The Darlington Players’ production of “Chicago: Teen Edition.”
When you think of Darlington, what three words come to mind first?
Growth, rigor, community
What song reminds you of high school?
"Weather" by Ginger Root! Ginger Root is a big favorite of mine, and this song happens to be one of his best! While the song is centered around a relationship, the main message of the chorus is what really reminds me of high school. The singer says that some positive times have been soiled by a negative atmosphere, but he can't dwell on it, saying, "I have to feel better, ignore all this weather." No matter what anyone says, high school is not all perfect or easy, and my experience has been no different. However, dwelling on the bad times only spoils the good memories I've made along the way and the memories that I'll make later on. This song reminds me to keep my head up and make as many memories as I can despite the negatives, all delivered with very catchy chord progressions and line delivery!
What's your favorite show to binge watch?
“Good Omens!” I have adored the story since the moment I began the book, and the series is SO good. A lot of the time when I would be working on notes I'd play some of the episodes to make the task a little more enjoyable. At this point, I can practically quote it. I've honestly watched it at least 10 times all the way through.
What's your favorite restaurant in Rome?
Yummy Thai! This was a common spot to hang out among my friend group, and I have so many fun memories within those walls. The food there is top notch as well. I highly recommend the potstickers and Pad Kee Mao.
What house are you a member of?
Cooper House
What are you involved in at Darlington?
Crew, assistant stage manager, and company manager for The Darlington Players Theater Company; member of GSA, DarFarm, and Varsity Library; frequenter of the D&D, Art History, and Nature Nuts iPeriods
If you are involved in fine arts, what is your favorite activity and why?
Theater! I've been involved with the company for 10 shows over four years, and I genuinely can't say how happy I am to be a part of it. The program not only allowed me to discover myself and my strengths, but I've been able to produce amazing shows with friends that I will cherish for a lifetime.
What's your favorite place on campus and why?
I love the science hall and its associated areas! I've taken many science classes, finally doubling up on some courses this year, so that building has slowly become the main place I frequent. Many of my favorite activities are housed in and around there, too, like the D&D iPeriod with Mr. Hudson, DarFarm in the greenhouse, and sitting in the peaceful air of the outdoor classroom. Many of my fondest memories have happened around that hall, and I can't think of Darlington without it coming to mind.
Who's your favorite teacher and why?
Mr. Hudson, Ms. Haynes, and Mr. Kinney - the science hall trinity. I'm almost always up there nowadays and it's always a pleasure to interact with all three of them. I've been involved in many of the things they lead as well, from advisory with Ms. Haynes to DarFarm and D&D with Mr. Hudson and Zoology/AP Environmental Science with Mr. Kinney (not to mention previous classes with them).
Mr. Inman and Ms. Hadaway - Two of the best history teachers I've ever had! Their classes were super engaging and informative, and conversations with them were always highlights of my day.
Mr. Hamil, Mr. Cox, and Mrs. Atkins - Some of the most genuine and kind people I've ever known. Their classes taught me about the subject while offering real-world information (often in the form of an off-hand lore drop, which were always appreciated), and the support I've received from them is invaluable.
What’s your favorite thing about Darlington?
I have loved the various opportunities to explore my passions! From clubs to electives to iPeriods, there is something for almost everyone to try. I was able to really find one of my true passions through the latter. I was intrigued by Mr. Inman and Ms. O'Mara's Art History iPeriod when I saw it on the sign-up sheet, thinking back to the few classes Mr. Inman would focus on the arts during AP World History and go on elaborate lectures. I figured it would be pretty similar, so I signed up. Now, three years later, one of my favorite things to research is the intricacies of various artists throughout time and their stories, enough to the point where I'm considering majoring in it! Through the many avenues at Darlington to find new interests, I found one that truly speaks to me, and I couldn't be more grateful.
Describe an experience that you've had at Darlington that you couldn't have had anywhere else.
I can't pick just one, but the many times that I've stayed in Mrs. Holst's office come to mind immediately. She was my advisor freshman year, and I couldn't have asked for a better introduction to Darlington. She was caring and accepting right away, and I've been hanging out in her office ever since. The accepting atmosphere of Darlington is almost channeled into that room, and I have never felt like I didn't belong or that I didn't matter when I was there. No matter what was happening around me, I could always walk in, be met with a smile and a snarky joke or two, and time would just stop for a bit. That breath of fresh air and the bond I've made with her could never be matched anywhere else.
What are some of the ways you've grown since you first came to Darlington?
I've gained the confidence to lead over my time here. Coming into Darlington, I could never see myself being in charge of anything, and frankly I was absolutely mortified at the idea. However, the support from the people around me and the gradual yet challenging progression of leadership in many aspects of student life have given me the courage and the skillset to lead. Now I've been company manager in two theater productions! Freshman me would absolutely go nuts about that.
What is your dream job?
Becoming some sort of archivist or art restorationist would be amazing! I know it sounds a little boring or weird, but I have always had a fascination for historical documents, artworks, and artifacts. With this job, I could combine that fascination with my passion for Art History and the tidbits I've learned from watching art cleaning videos (though I would make sure I had more experience than that before starting a restoration, of course). The idea of being surrounded by physical history is so enchanting to me, and while it may never come to fruition, it would be an amazing way to spend my time.
Click here to see more #SeniorSpotlights from the Class of 2024!
Find out how you can be 100% Darlington, too, by requesting a personal campus tour at www.darlingtonschool.org/visit or contacting admission@darlingtonschool.org.
