“Full of Life”: Samoria’s Journey at City School Atlanta
When Samoria Milton walks across the stage as valedictorian of City School Atlanta’s Class of 2025, it won’t just mark the end of high school. It will be the culmination of a journey that began in sixth grade—one filled with transformation, healing, and the unmistakable power of community.
Samoria joined City School in 2018 after her family moved from Cobb County. She was transitioning not just into a new school, but into a new chapter of life. Her previous school experience had left her feeling unseen in overcrowded classrooms. “I was smart, but I still didn’t get everything I needed,” she recalls. “There was just something missing.”
That changed when she came to City School Atlanta. “It was like everybody was family,” she said. “I actually got that real impact—people helping me, making sure I was okay, that one-on-one with my teachers.”
A Safe Space for Growth
City School quickly became more than a school—it became a refuge. After a brief stint at an APS high school her freshman year, Samoria realized just how different her experience at City School had been. Faced with bomb threats and chaos at her new school, she decided to return. “This is the place. This is where I’m safe,” she said.
That safety extended beyond academics. It was emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal. “The worship program got me closer to God,” she shared. “I’m not ashamed to be a Christian. My faith is unwavering because of what they built into us.”
Staff members like Ms. Davionne encouraged her when things were tough. “She really spoke life into me and told me I could do great things. I didn’t even know she was building my confidence until later. She was like my school mom.”
She also credits Miss Camp and Mrs. Hall, two staff members who helped her during one of the darkest times of her life. “When I was self-harming, Miss Camp met me where I was.” Miss Hall helped get her into therapy and never stopped checking in. “She literally knows everything. Just by looking at us, she can see when something’s wrong.”
A Bright Future
Samoria expressed a deep gratitude for the donors who make City School Atlanta possible. “I'm very grateful. Most schools don’t do what we do here. Everything is so full of life here.”
After graduation, Samoria plans to start at Georgia Southern University in the fall, and her dream is to transfer to Spelman after a strong first semester. Wherever she goes, one thing is certain: Samoria’s future is as bright as her smile. Her journey through City School Atlanta is a powerful testament to what happens when a student is seen, supported, and loved.
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