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Photo by Sam Harrel

Andre’a Balty is Far North Christian School’s only 2008 graduate, but at various times she has also been the school’s lone junior, solo sophomore and single freshman.

Although she has attended Far North since kindergarten, and the small school has felt like family, being the only one in high school has its disadvantages.

“Being the only student meant I never had a partner in crime,” Balty said.

But she adapted and left her comfort level to befriend students in other grades. She said her fondest high school memories were of the time she spent in unsupervised study hall with last year’s seniors.

Balty served as a tutor at Hunter Elementary School and volunteered at her own school during her years at Far North.

Balty said she plans to attend God’s Bible School & College in Ohio following graduation. She decided she wanted to further her education there after visiting the school and realizing the faculty and staff there shared her ideals. Balty said no matter what field she chooses to study, the most important thing for her is to set a good example for her religion.

“I’m not going to college to get rich,” Balty said.

She won’t be heading straight to Ohio, though. Balty is taking a year off so she can save for her education. She said paying her own way will allow her to better appreciate her time there.

“I thought it was a good idea, but I left the decision up to her,” Balty’s mother, Carolyn, said.

Earning a wage is nothing new for Balty. Until recently, she owned a lawn care business for five years and a cleaning business for three. Balty said in the summer she would have to work on 50 lawns every two weeks, with a little help from her father at the beginning of the season.

Carolyn describes her daughter as an obsessive student who was always reviewing material on index cards.

“I’m extremely proud of her,” Carolyn said.

Though she is not entirely sure of what field she wants to go into, Balty said she has an interest in theology, philosophy and archeology. She would like to become a college professor, but before she establishes herself professionally, Balty said she wants to raise a family.

“Whatever I do, I want to be the best at it,” Balty said.