Success Stories
Hear from some of our studentsHere are just a few of our students' stories. Ready to write your chapter? Get started today! StephanoRecruited from the Bahamas to pursue elite basketball opportunities, Stephano enrolled at Commonwealth to help balance academics and athletics. Now a graduate, he plans to attend Delaware State University and continue pursuing Division I basketball. “Commonwealth has been a very different experience for me,” he shared. “The shorter sessions and flexible schedule allow me to better juggle academics with practice.” “Earning my diploma is a major milestone for me because a lot of people in my family did not earn a high school diploma."  Natalya“After I left [my previous high school], I doubted that I would ever graduate, but that changed when I came to Commonwealth." At Commonwealth, Natalya found the support and confidence she needed to thrive academically and pursue her dream of becoming a nurse through CPCC’s Career and College Promise Program.  Herman“A lot of people thought I wouldn't finish high school during my hard times, but I did. All with the help of my peers and teachers that I met during my time at Commonwealth." Commonwealth immediately felt different from his previous school. “It feels calmer, and the staff feels more like family.”  DresaniyahAfter overcoming personal hardships, balancing family responsibilities, working nights, and attending dual sessions, Dresaniyah earned 19 credits in nine months and is now preparing for graduation, military service, and future opportunities. “I was doubtful I would graduate, but that changed when I met Ms. Walsh,” she shared. “She motivated me and provided guidance.”  Ashley R.“I was at my lowest and when I came here, I just saw a whole new shot at life.” Ashley says as she reflects on what brought her to Commonwealth. At Commonwealth, Ashley not only found an environment that fostered her academic growth but also a path to pursue her passions. Taking a chance on the Career and Technical Education (CTE) course to become a certified CNA, Ashley rediscovered her calling to help others. "I've always wanted to do something to help others. I started taking the course and was like I actually find this interesting. I actually see moving on with this."  Madison“I have always loved to read and to learn,” Madison says as she thinks about her early days in school. “But things started to get bad in middle school. Nobody told me what middle school could be like.” Madison’s struggles in the traditional classroom continued into high school. “I was ready to give up. But at Commonwealth, the teachers are adamant about helping you. As long as you work with them, they’ll work with you. It’s definitely more personalized.”  Ashley"The amount of stress was just too much. I just wasn't motivated. I literally felt like I might pass out from the number of people around me. I started losing hope. At this school, there are fewer people. The atmosphere is smaller, and much less stressful. I'm comfortable here.” Read Ashley's full story Tanisha"Do you ever just feel unmotivated?," Tanisha asks, "like you just can't?" She's describer her experience at a previous school. "It's the energy around you. The people around you. I just didn't have people motivating me. Coming here was a reset. I'm happy, excited, energetic. I'm motivated now! When I got pregnant, that became my motivation. I'm transitioning into a whole new person. I'm proud of myself." Read Tanisha's full story BreeonnahBreeonnah worked tirelessly for two years, essentially completing four full years of credit in half the time. She attended both the morning and afternoon sessions, and became known for her willingness to hep other students. Breonnah Graduated with a 3.65 GPA, capping her high school career with an unexpected label: class valedictorian. Read Breeonnah's full story EbonyAs one of five children, Ebony worked hard to stand out. Her efforts earned her a place on the honor role and seemed poised for continued success as a star student at her local public school. Ebony's academic success, though, would soon fade in the face of challenges at home and with her health. With the help and care of the team at Commonwealth – especially Ms. Garwood, her advisory teacher – and the aid of a pacemaker, Ebony bounced back, now proudly calling herself a graduate. Read Ebony's full story |