Willow Finds Success and Community at INDLS  

For many students, traditional schooling doesn’t always provide the best fit. Willow, a junior at Indiana Digital Learning School (INDLS), found herself struggling in a regular classroom setting. Distractions and falling behind in her coursework were constant battles.  

When Willow made the switch to INDLS, it marked a turning point in her academic journey. She found a more flexible, personalized learning environment that helped her thrive. The transition to online learning gave her the freedom to explore her academic potential, focus on subjects she was passionate about, and pursue her goals in a way that traditional schooling could not.  

The Struggles of Traditional Schooling  

Willow’s experience in brick-and-mortar schools wasn’t easy. “When I was in brick-and-mortar school for seventh and eighth grade, I wasn’t really paying attention well,” she remembers. Despite her best efforts, she found herself distracted by socializing. This focus on socializing, coupled with a rigid curriculum, led to slipping grades and missed opportunities for growth. The crowded classrooms, constant distractions, and lack of personalized support left Willow feeling overwhelmed. As a result, her academic performance suffered. After facing challenges in traditional schooling, Willow and her family decided to explore a new educational option: INDLS.  

Discovering the Benefits of Online Learning at INDLS  

At INDLS, Willow could take the time she needed to understand challenging concepts without feeling rushed. The flexibility allowed her to concentrate on areas where she struggled and advance quickly in subjects she excelled in. INDLS’s online system, with its variety of resources and tools, offered a level of customization that supported her learning style. The freedom to revisit lessons helped reinforce her understanding and boosted her confidence. The absence of a traditional classroom setting gave Willow the space to focus on her studies without the pressure of social distractions.  

One of Willow’s biggest successes at INDLS was her improvement in Math and English. Thanks to the tailored learning approach, she earned honors in both subjects for three consecutive years. The online setting allowed her to work on assignments at her own pace, submitting drafts for feedback and revisions. “You don’t have to turn on your brightness whenever you feel like you’re going to fail something,” she adds. This sense of freedom was crucial for her success, as it provided the opportunity to revisit lessons, ask questions, and work at her own pace. “The teachers here care. The teachers will answer all of your questions,” Willow affirms.  

A Supportive Community Across Indiana  

Although INDLS is an online school, it fosters a strong sense of community across Indiana. Willow describes it as a statewide community, and this sense of belonging has been a key part of her experience. INDLS provides opportunities for students to engage with their peers and teachers beyond the classroom. Virtual events, field trips, and extracurricular activities keep students connected in meaningful ways. Willow has participated in several of these activities, from taking part in exciting field trips to enjoying the camaraderie of virtual Rocket Day celebrations.  

Willow’s involvement in extracurricular activities like the Hiking Club, Student Council, and her new Spirit Wear initiative has allowed her to stay socially engaged and develop leadership skills. As a leader of the Spirit Wear initiative, which aims to offer students more options for school merchandise, she says, “I created a lot of different ideas for spirit wear that we could add.” She explains that students have shown interest in items like jerseys, bucket hats, and even toddler-sized apparel. Willow helps promote school spirit by organizing apparel sales, creating a sense of school pride even from a distance. The online format may be virtual, but the connections Willow has built are just as real as those in any traditional school setting.  

Exploring Career Pathways Beyond High School  

Willow is using her time at INDLS to plan for her future career in cosmetology. After graduation, she plans to attend trade school to study cosmetology with the hopes of opening her own business one day. To prepare for this, she’s pursuing a business pathway at INDLS to gain essential skills in management and marketing. INDLS’s career-focused approach allows students to explore various career options early, helping them prepare for life beyond high school.  

Discover the INDLS Difference  

Willow’s experience demonstrates how a tailored education can foster both academic achievement and personal growth. By overcoming the challenges of traditional schooling, she found success through the support and flexibility of online education. If you’re looking for a supportive and flexible learning environment for your child, INDLS might be the perfect fit. Willow’s experience shows just how much personalized online education can make a difference. Whether your child needs a break from traditional school distractions or a path to explore their own academic interests, INDLS offers an approach that adapts to their needs.  

Ready to start your child’s journey? You can still switch for the 2024-2025 school year! Visit indls.k12.com to learn more about enrollment and see how we can help your child reach their full potential in a community that supports them every step of the way.  

  

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