Hadrian enjoys many things, some related to his academic studies, some not. At Willamette Connections Academy, he and his family can set his schedule and organize each day in the way that works best for him, both as a person and as a student.

“I’m passionate about video games,” he explains. “I get to play my games during breaks in school.” He also loves watching sports, which he does regularly. “I even get to watch day games” because of the school’s flexible learning model.

Hadrian is equally passionate about his schoolwork. “My favorite subjects in school are Oregon state history and science,” he says. “I love learning about the state I live in, and I like doing science experiments with my mom.”

Many people only truly appreciate their teachers in hindsight. Sometimes it isn’t until years later that they realize just how much of an impact an individual educator made in their lives. Hadrian already understands the value his teacher is providing, as well as the connection they share. 

“I have a really good relationship with my teacher,” he says, specifically pointing to “one-on-one reading time” as especially helpful. But he also acknowledges—and appreciates—that interactions extend beyond the lessons. We “talk about some of my favorite things,” he says. “I like that.”