Advice from Crossroads' 25th Graduate

Aaron's Story . . . by Janet Streed

Having a part-time job close to home, one that gives him an opportunity to use his welding skills, makes Aaron Schlegel feel glad, at least for now.

There was a time when Aaron didn’t think he would complete studies at Crossroads School, let alone be Crossroads’ 25^th graduate as a member of the Class of 2019. At graduation this past May 17^th, he shared his strategy for success in the form of advice for underclassmen – “Never Give Up”, he encouraged them.

Through home schooling, experiences at public schools, and then at Crossroads, Aaron never gave up. He was determined to face his learning challenges head-on. He took advantage of the opportunities at Crossroads, especially the one-on-one instruction, to learn and maximize his potential.

Aaron’s older brother, Noah, also a Crossroads graduate, had taken a welding class at Career Development Center. He thought his little brother would appreciate working with his hands, and encouraged Aaron to take the same class. Aaron did so, and discovered he had an aptitude for welding.

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Aaron likes his part-time job. He also likes working on cars and going fishing. He recently toured a welding company, and has submitted his application for full-time work as an industrial welder.

In his spare time, Aaron helps his dad, Dr. Mike Schlegel, with woodworking projects, but admits “I don’t like doing the same things over and over. I like it better when dad mixes things up now and then.”

“I’m very proud of my son,” Mike says. “He worked very hard. I have recently learned of additional resources and opportunities available to us; those will make it possible for Aaron to find a rewarding full-time job, and to eventually live independently.”

Mike and Aaron encourage families who have students struggling in traditional classrooms to check out Crossroads “to see if that helps.” It worked well for Aaron. As he continues his journey beyond Crossroads, he will do so with the same attitude that paved the way for his success so far.

No matter the challenge, Aaron will never give up.

Newsletters/graduates 2019.jpg Congratulations, graduates!!

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Five alumni joined us to celebrate graduation

Graduation 2019:

Congratulations, New Alumni!

On Friday, May 17, four more Crossroads seniors crossed the graduation stage, giving us a total of 25 alumni since Crossroads opened in 2010. Following the Crossroads tradition, each senior gave a speech; here are quotes from just two of those speeches:

“On October 19^th 2016, I started going to Crossroads and my life changed for the better. Before going to Crossroads I went to a high school in the area where I thought I wouldn’t accomplish anything. I had nothing but F’s in all of my classes. I even managed to fail choir. Like who fails choir?! . . . . But then I got the greatest opportunity. I got the chance to shadow at Crossroads School. I’ve gotten nothing but straight A’s ever since and I’m extremely grateful. So I’d like to say thank you . . . for giving me the chance to succeed and a huge thank you . . . for never losing faith in me.” --Chloe Gomez

Before Crossroads I never wanted to go to my classes just because I thought I wasn’t smart enough to succeed in the classrooms there. Coming to Crossroads changed all of that for me . . . they took the time to know me and how I learn best. . . . My plans are to further my interest and start cosmetology at IBMC so one day I can start at a salon and maybe even own my own shop. Because of Crossroads I know I can do anything I put my mind to and I will be forever grateful for that. --Riona Duran-Lovato

Seniors at Crossroads not only work toward their diploma; they also develop and pursue a future plan in collaboration with Collegiate Crossings. As mentioned above, Aaron earned welding certification and is looking for full-time work as a welder. Riona plans to enroll at IBMC to study Cosmetology. Brianna has 12 college credits earned through concurrent enrollment and plans to continue at community college to earn her Early Childhood certification. And Chloe earned her Dental Assisting certificate and plans to get a job that field.

Thank you for making these and other speeches--and futures--possible!! Each investment in the lives of our students creates the opportunity for success. Together with Crossroads School, you are “changing our world, one life at a time!”