Ethan
High School
Ethan F. is in tenth grade at Great Lakes Learning Academy and is passionate about mixed martial arts (MMA). He enrolled here, he says, because he was “going to a traditional public school, but it was hard to keep up with everything because I train and have a job."
The Benefits of a Flexible School
Ethan joined our school in eighth grade at the suggestion of his girlfriend, who also attends and is serious about MMA. What has surprised him most? “The flexibility,” says Ethan. “I have a tight schedule with all the things I want to do and I’m able to make it all work.
“In traditional public school you had to do everything right away and move on to the next thing. It didn’t give me time to process what I was learning. When asked about his favorite subjects and activities at our school he said, “Gym class of course, always. I also like learning history.”
What the Future May Hold
What does Ethan see himself doing down the road? “I want to start a business of some sort, not really sure what kind yet,” he says. “But first, I want to be a professional MMA fighter. When I started, I just wanted to defend myself and have something to do.
“I competed in youth nationals in MMA and finished three opponents in under 20 seconds. That qualified me to compete in Indonesia. It was my first time out of the country. My family set up a Go Fund Me to help me get there. I had a really good time in Indonesia and trained with amazing athletes.
“My family didn’t really expect me to go this far because I’m so quiet, but I got really into it. My goal is to be a professional and compete in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship).”
“What I like most about Great Lakes Learning Academy is being able to learn at my own pace. … You can take your time on assignments if you need it.”
— Ethan