The School That Believed in Me: Mary’s Pathways Journey to Graduation

Mary confidently walks the stage, ready to share her story and inspire her fellow graduates.

Mary B. is a determined young woman who recently graduated from Pathways In Education (PIE). Before joining PIE, school was a struggle. She faced setbacks, including being removed from her previous school and recovering from a serious shoulder injury. At PIE, Mary found the encouragement and support she needed to keep going—and she’s now on her way to becoming a nurse.

The Challenge
Mary’s experiences prior to PIE left her feeling unwelcome and misunderstood in school. She recalls:

"Growing up in a school system that does not consider every type of student builds resentment. Imagine being told you aren’t a good student. You’re a bad kid. You’re a problem child. You are being watched. That was me, until I found Pathways."

Additionally, her struggles were compounded by personal hardships:

"Near the end of my Junior year of high school, I was kicked out of school by an administration that refused to see the big picture. Shortly thereafter, I severely injured my shoulder and was told that it would require surgery. I was ready to quit school. Get my GED. End this very dismal chapter."

Addressing her classmates, Mary reflects on her journey and the determination that brought her to this moment.

The Pathways Impact
Mary credits PIE with transforming her educational experience through a culture of genuine care and belonging:

"In hindsight, I am so grateful for my parents’ decision to enroll me at Pathways because the story that follows and the people that joined me on my educational journey opened my eyes to something I didn’t know existed at school: people who genuinely care. People who make me feel like I belong and that I matter. People who actually want to bless me. This is Pathways."

The school’s personalized approach helped Mary rebuild her confidence and re-engage with learning:

"Carson was my first IS teacher, which turned out to be a huge blessing. With his influence, before long, going to school was something I enjoyed and looked forward to. I never thought that would be possible."

Mary celebrates her achievement, receiving her diploma from Principal Leslie Lehnertz, a testament to her hard work and perseverance

A Newfound Passion or Goal
PIE also reinforced Mary’s aspirations, helping her pursue her dream of becoming a nurse:

"I have always wanted to become a nurse. Without this school and its amazing staff, it would not have been possible. I would have gotten my GED. My dream would have been crushed. But here I am, chasing my dreams."

Supportive Teachers & Community
Mary emphasizes the importance of PIE’s educators and staff in her personal growth:

"Attentive, empathetic, and even-tempered. These are the words I would use to describe Carson. I remember coming to school absolutely frazzled…‘Mary, you are human. You’re having major surgery in a week. You’re working. You’re going to school. That’s a lot. I’m not mad, I’m not even upset. I just want to make sure you’re ok. Do you need anything?’"

She also highlights the broader PIE community:

"The administration employs people who actually want to get to know and build relationships with their students. Mike and Leslie are some of the most fantastic humans you will ever meet. They care so deeply and have a unique ability to push and believe in students that otherwise would not believe in themselves."

Mary expresses gratitude for the personal support she received:

"Lastly, I would like to thank a few people. First, Mike for always lending a listening ear. Bill for making even the hardest days feel a little bit easier. Leslie for being an amazing mother hen of a principal. And finally Carson for changing the way I see education."

Reflection & Achievement
Through PIE’s guidance and encouragement, Mary overcame adversity, regained her confidence, and achieved her high school diploma:

"Pathways has truly changed the way I view education and educators as a whole. In the best possible way."

Mary’s story is proof that when students feel seen, supported, and encouraged, they can achieve incredible things. At Pathways In Education, every student matters—and every student has a path to success.