Adapting to Unexpected Change
No longer able to pursue competitive figure skating, Kaia needed more than flexibility in her school day. She needed direction. Fortunately, her passions were expansive—and Connections Academy proved to be the perfect place for her to explore new opportunities and grow as a student and person.
“Before Connections Academy, I was more limited in the courses I had available to me and in the ways I could challenge myself academically,” Kaia says. “When I joined Connections Academy, I found many diverse and exciting course offerings.”
Building Her Future
At Connections Academy, Kaia has taken classes in journalism and used her more flexible schedule to write poetry, plays and stories. She also founded a virtual student club called “Can I Have a Word?” With the help of her 11th grade AP English Language teacher, she established the club as a space for students to share their ideas, thoughts and opinions during uncertain times.
But Kaia wasn’t done. She also reached into her local community and coded a website to help people find Asian-owned restaurants. The COVID-19 pandemic had hurt many of these restaurants, and Kaia knew she could help.
“I’m very proud of my Asian heritage,” she says. “And I was motivated to help in any way I could. The response and support I’ve received has been so gratifying.”
Preparing for College
Now, Kaia’s attention has turned to choosing a college. Once again, Connections Academy has been right by her side, helping her along.
“My counselor has been incredibly supportive and helpful during the college application process,” she says. “I know I can reach out to her whenever I have questions, and she’ll always be there for me. And not just my counselor—many teachers have offered great support and resources to seniors throughout this process.”
In addition to helping her find a college, Kaia says Connections Academy has prepared her to thrive once she heads to campus. Not only has she enjoyed a great education, Connections Academy has helped her build her personal responsibility and hone her time-management and organizational skills.
“I’m very, very pleased with my experience and have enjoyed my time at Connections Academy,” she says.
With her energy, passion and Connections Academy education, she’s surely headed for a bright future.