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Barrow Arts and Sciences Academy (BASA) senior Jayla Ajaye was added to the Grad Track caseload at the beginning of her sophomore year after failing Algebra 1 as a freshman. Since that time, Jayla has not only retaken and passed Algebra 1, but she has worked hard to pass every class. In addition to her academic success, Jayla already has two pathway completions in Audio Video Tech & Film and Engineering. These pathway completions in CTAE classes have given Jayla a valuable opportunity to learn about possible careers for her future.
Along with staying on top of all her classes at BASA, Jayla also works part-time at Pizza Hut. In her spare time, she enjoys watching movies and spending time with her friends. After high school Jayla plans to attend a four-year college. She is currently in the process of applying to multiple colleges and is excited to make a final decision about which one to attend. Although Jayla is undecided on her college major, she shared that she is interested in some of the career opportunities she learned about in her various pathway classes at BASA.
Jayla is not only a hard-working student, but she also gives back to other struggling students by being a senior peer mentor in the BASA BUDDIES Club. As a senior mentor, Jayla is a buddy to an at-risk freshman who may be struggling with beginning the high school journey. She commits to attending the club meetings once a month and encouraging her buddy as needed throughout the week at school. She also participates in our field trips to Austin Road Elementary School where the club collaborates with a 5th grade class to do fun activities, showing our upcoming middle school students that getting older is not so bad.
Jayla’s teachers have many positive things to say about her determination and perseverance. Art teacher Mr. Freeman says, “Jayla is an independent thinker and works beyond expectations consistently. Jayla enjoys working through the topics in art and applying her own take on each assignment and project. She is a hard worker and enjoys the outcome from the hard work she puts into her work.” Science teacher Ms. Jones shares, “As Jayla approaches graduation, I couldn't be prouder of the incredible young woman she has become. Her journey has been marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. She has overcome obstacles with grace and has emerged stronger and more capable than ever. As she prepares to embark on the next chapter of her life, I have every confidence she will continue to shine brightly and make a profound impact on the world.”
Jayla is a perfect example of a Grad Track student who has exemplified that hard work and determination can make a difference. We at BASA are very proud of Jayla and can’t wait to watch her walk across the stage at graduation in May of 2024!
We are proud of our students who are on the “Grad Track.” A Grad Track student has either failed one or more academic classes and/or is behind in credits needed for graduation with their cohort class. Graduation Specialists at all three Barrow County School System (BCSS) high schools support students who meet these qualifications.