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For sophomore Jessia Carter, the transformation she has undergone in the past two years demonstrates her determination and resilience. Her story is characterized by perseverance, support, and belief in oneself.
Freshman year at BASA began with struggles. Jessia failed assignments, which led to failed classes. She avoided schoolwork by leisurely walking the halls between classes, and when possible, avoided being in class altogether. Academic interventionists, counselors, teachers, and administrators held meetings with the student to plan ways to better support Jessia, but she would often claim that the solution didn’t involve her ability to do the work, it was to leave – transfer to Foothills or even return to Winder Barrow High School. Her support team knew her potential and remained unwavering. They believed she could and would be successful at BASA. Their message to Jessia was clear: We are here for you. We want you at BASA. We are going to give you all the support you need, and you CAN do this!
During the second semester, Jessia’s team implemented interventions to help her be successful. All of her classes were located in one building in order to remove the excuse of long walks and being late to classes. The academic interventionists and teachers were relentless in their support – strategically scheduling her check-ins during expeditions, working with her one-on-one, and providing additional tutoring. At first, like any other student when faced with change, Jessia resisted. But slowly the walls were broken down and she accepted the help, put in additional effort, believed in herself, and saw positive gains in her grades.
The change in Jessia is undeniable. Jessia is no longer avoiding class, she asks for help when needed, signs herself up for tutoring and remediation when needed, and is being a leader by encouraging her classmates to also attend tutoring. Her confidence has grown. We now get to see genuine joy when she is successful... her infectious smile is a reminder for teachers to pour into every student.
Ms. Conrad, one of Jessia’s teachers, cannot say enough great things about her transformation and perseverance. “From an educator’s perspective, Jessia is a reminder it’s worth not giving up—continue to provide opportunities, check in, even when it may seem like the student isn’t listening or doesn’t care. It is always worth it. Jessia has grown so much, and I know will continue to grow.”
What was implemented last year has become part of Jessia's everyday routine in school: participation, showing up, seeking help, remediating... the list goes on and on. Jessia is now on-track to earn every single credit she needs this year, and her journey is far from over. We are incredibly proud of Jessia and can’t wait to see her continue to prosper and accomplish all her goals.