Edward Patterson will certainly leave his mark at Thomas Christian Academy upon his graduation. But the 17-year-old student would like to leave a lasting impact on the community he loves as well.
“Yazoo City is the best city in the world,” he said. “Even if others disagree.”
Patterson’s love for his community is just as large as his dedication to his small school, where he has attended his entire life.
“He is the epitome of what we want our students to be,” said instructor Melodie Patterson. “He is a gentleman, determined and hard working.”
Patterson currently serves as class president and head ambassador. He takes his studies seriously, leaning towards science as his favorite subject.
Aside from his academics, Patterson also enjoys playing basketball and football. But swimming is the one activity he has holds dear to his heart.
“My favorite activity would have to be swimming because I have done it all my life,” he said. “I would one day love to give back to my community by building parks and a community swimming pool. Everyone needs to know how to swim because it is so essential.”
Within the walls of TCA, Patterson has developed a close relationship with his instructor Charles Thomas.
“He has taught me everything I need to know about math,” Patterson said. “But he has also taught me many life lessons.”
The interaction between the students and teachers is one of the many success stories within TCA, he added.
“The teachers take care of you, one-on-one,” Patterson said. “Even outside of school, they will always help you out.”
Patterson is currently involved with the National Guard, but he would also like to pursue a medical degree in his future.
“In a perfect world, in ten years, I would love to be in Florida in the special forces, starting a family,” he said.
Patterson said he knows there are many residents who often complain about Yazoo City. But he remains committed to the community he calls home. Despite the challenges that come with any community, he said he is very proud to be a Yazooan and sees the positive things that are happening.
“His goals are bigger than us,” Melodie Patterson said. “He is determined to come back and help just as he was helped. He want to invest back into the school and back into Yazoo City.”
Fellow TCA student Dre’mon Ray knows that Yazoo City is a place where there is always someone looking out for your best interests. Despite challenges, he said he focuses on the people who have provided the foundation for him to become a successful adult. And it’s a blessing he intends to give back to others as he prepares for graduation.
The 16-year-old senior first arrived at TCA about seven years ago. Aside from playing football, he also serves as the school judge and class vice president.
“But my favorite subject is math because it gives me something to figure out,” Ray said, adding that his favorite instructors were the late Charles Thomas and currently Mr. Patterson. “They are always there to help you out.”
Ray said the instructors at TCA and fellow parents also provide assistance outside of the classroom, which he said contributes to his own desire to give back to others.
“Teachers and parents will talk to you about anything, and they are always here for you,” Ray said.
In the future, Ray said he would like to establish an activity center in Yazoo City that would focus on the local youth. Providing activities for young people to do would keep them busy, sharp and provide insight on the importance of becoming a productive citizen, he said.
“I loved growing up in Yazoo City and all the experiences I have had here,” he said. “I have learned a lot, made great friends. It just feels like home.”
Ray intends to pursue a college degree in Florida and would like to start a business in fashion. But he also has plenty of dreams as well.
“In a perfect world, in ten years, I will have my own business, have a child and possibly play professional football,” he added.
“Ray wants to invest back into Yazoo and put our community on the map in a good way,” added Melodie Patterson.
