Your Gifts Sustain Us – Thank you!

At EMS, the commitment to nurturing students’ well-being and growth is at the heart of everything we do. This philosophy is vividly embodied by Jodi Nisly ’91 Hertzler, an English teacher, senior class sponsor, and college counselor since 2014. Hertzler’s approach to teaching is deeply rooted in her own experiences as an EMS student, where the connections she made with her teachers left a lasting impact.

Jodi Nysly ’91

Hertzler graduated from EMS 30 years ago, and her journey has come full circle as she now guides students through their academic and personal growth. Reflecting on her own time as a student, she recalls, “What I remember most about my experience is the connections I had with my teachers. They were mentors who shaped my journey, and I strive to be that for my students.”

At EMS, Hertzler’s role as a college counselor is unique. Unlike in many schools, she has the opportunity to form deep, personalized relationships with students, providing them with tailored guidance through the college admission process or whatever their next steps may include. Hertzler notes, “Because of our small size, I can tailor each student’s experience to what they need most, whether it’s independent check-ins or more hands-on support.”

“Our life journeys take unpredictable turns and unique routes. We don’t need to map out the entire path; we just need to focus on the next step and guide them forward, whether it’s a gap year, a job, or a prestigious college. Most of our students get into the college of their choice and 98% go to college. More importantly, whatever they choose, they are confident to succeed there.”

Hertzler’s dedication to her students is evident in the memorable moments she shares. Once, a student, who had been waitlisted by his dream school, ran into her classroom wearing a University of Virginia sweatshirt to celebrate his acceptance with a big hug. “That was really special,” she recalls with a smile.

Hertzler emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship at EMS. “Our teachers aren’t just instructors; they’re mentors,” she explains. “The connection between students and their teachers is vital. We know our students well enough to recommend opportunities that suit them and to encourage them to explore new interests.” She stresses the importance of finding the right fit for each student rather than focusing solely on prestigious school names.

This environment allows students to thrive in various fields, from STEM to the arts, supported by teachers who genuinely care about their success. Hertzler also highlights the comprehensive support she provides to students and their families, starting as early as ninth grade. “I meet with students individually, help them explore career options, and guide them through every step of the college application process,” she says.

Hertzler’s commitment to her students extends beyond academic advising. She values the personal growth of each student, ensuring they feel known, cared for, and empowered to make choices that align with their goals and passions. “My wish for all of our students is to feel that they belong, that they are cared for as individuals, and that we want the best for them.”

In a recent TODAY magazine feature, Hertzler was honored to represent EMS’s counseling program. However, what she cherished most was the spotlight on the students’ stories, a testament to the meaningful work happening every day at EMS. “Because Students are Known Here,” she writes, sharing moments of student growth, such as a former 10th-grade English student now tutoring college peers or another realizing, “I’m going to college!”

At EMS, ‘community’ means teachers aren’t just instructors—they are mentors who want to know each student as an individual. We challenge students academically while helping them learn to think independently, discuss deeply, collaborate well, and advocate for themselves. As a parent of three EMS grads herself, Hertzler has witnessed these moments of growth firsthand.

To sustain what makes EMS special, your support is crucial. Tuition alone doesn’t fully fund the experience that teaches students how to think, problem solve, and engage with their world—skills that stay with them for life. As we approach our June 30 fiscal year-end, gifts help sustain financial aid, mentoring relationships, arts and athletics, and the personal support that makes EMS distinctive.

Whether your gift is $50 or $5,000, your support ensures that EMS students continue to be known, encouraged, and prepared for what comes next.

To all of you who continue investing in the lives of our students and helping them find their way: Thank you!