Student, Bailey L., addressing the Meridian community at Pathways In Education-West Ada’s ribbon cutting ceremony.
When traditional high school didn’t meet Bailey’s needs, she found a new path—one designed for her success. Now a sophomore at Pathways In Education, Bailey shared her story during the Pathways In Education’s Meridian center’s grand opening to inspire others who might feel the same way she once did.
“Maybe like you, traditional high school was not a good fit,” Bailey said. At her former school, the daily environment made it difficult to focus. “There are many distractions like yelling in hallways, loud conversations, and challenger peer behavior.” In contrast, Bailey found that Pathways offered something very different: “a more quiet, study hall like environment to help us focus and advocate for our learning, which I have learned to do here.”
Bailey also struggled with the traditional academic structure. “I couldn't juggle 8 classes at a time,” she explained. “Handling 3 classes is much easier and I can breeze through each class, understanding it all.” For students who need additional support, Bailey highlighted that “we offer small group instruction classes for math, science, and English,” as well as an online platform with a wide range of electives including “fashion, creative writing, physical science and more.”
Student Bailey L. at the Pathways In Education-West Ada’s ribbon cutting alongside Principal Leslie Lehnertz and student Anona D. with Pathways In Education leadership team Susan Lux, Kristi Duenas, and Jamie Donahue.
One of the most impactful parts of Bailey’s Pathways experience has been the consistent support from her teacher. “Students have one teacher, no matter what grade or what class you're working on, you're with them until you graduate. The teachers want to help you and show you that they care. They’re fun to talk to and explain problems in an easier manner.”
Pathways also offers a unique social environment. “Everyone isn’t separated by grade… we’re not defined by them. We focus on our credits or how far along or how close we are to graduating. This creates a better workflow and more of a comfortable environment, because it avoids social pressure.”
Safety and well-being are another cornerstone of the school. “In traditional schools there is bullying, violence and peer pressure to use illegal substances,” Bailey said. “At Pathways, bullying is never tolerated, neither is violence and substance use. The students are more focused on graduating than hurting others.”
Bailey emphasized the value of the flexible schedule as well: “We have to be there, Monday through Friday, 8 hours a day, that takes up half the day and challenges your mental health. Pathways has school twice a week… for 2 hours a day, 4 hours a week. You’re home a lot more and that benefits your mental health and your overall happiness.”
Reflecting on her journey, Bailey shared, “I love this routine as I feel more comfortable and safe learning at home than at traditional high school.” For students looking for a different way to learn—one that supports their mental health, academic progress, and personal growth—Bailey believes Pathways is the right place. “Pathways is an amazing alternative option for those who need more 1-1 help and can stay motivated to work on school at home!”