I recently read a very moving story about Samantha Fisher, a high school senior from our community,
who overcame many obstacles to accomplish a big goal, to graduate from high school.
You might have read the same story and I am sure you were as moved as I was. During her first year at Whiteland Community High School, Samantha’s mother died of a drug overdose; her father died two years later of alcohol poisoning. Samantha and her siblings were separated and in and out of foster care for months, causing her focus on school work to be nearly impossible.
By January she had a 1.5 grade-point average, making graduating on time seem impossible. Fortunately, she had a teacher that suggested Samantha attends Clark-Pleasant Academy. Through Samantha’s hard work and determination, and the help of her teachers at the academy, she began to make progress. By early March, she was able to make up all the courses she was missing.
On May 25, Samantha walked across the Whiteland stage, where she received her high school diploma.
Samantha’s story is remarkable. No one should have to go through something so horrific, especially at such a young age. For her to come out on top—even with all the obstacles life presented her—is amazing and speaks volumes of her character.
Because of the opportunities presented by the Clark-Pleasant Academy, Samantha was able to graduate on time. The academy is the first of its kind in Johnson County, located just west of Whiteland Community High School. The curriculum covers all the major skills required by the Indiana Department of Education, but offers a fresh alternative for students on their educational path toward graduation.
The academy is a public school that specifically addresses low achievement, poor attendance and/or lack of effort by students. They provide academic support with personalized instruction and work to eliminate practices that push students out of school.
Public charter schools and academies are put in place to provide students,and their families, with an additional educational option that may better fit the student’s needs. Either way, I am grateful we have a school in our community that helps students in need.
But more importantly, I am glad it provides a happy ending to stories like Samantha’s.
