Student Voices: Unveiling the Heart of Waggener
While data and accolades paint a picture of Waggener High School's success, the true measure of its impact lies in the voices and experiences of its students. The recent NCAC visit provided a powerful platform for student ambassadors to share their stories, revealing how the Academies model has transformed their learning, ignited their passions, and prepared them for a future filled with promise.
A Sense of Belonging: Finding Community in the Freshman Academy
For many students, the journey begins in the Freshman Academy, where they find a supportive and inclusive community that fosters a sense of belonging. As freshman Kayla shared, the Academy provided a welcoming environment where she "felt included and found a sense of identity." This feeling of connection is a common thread throughout the student experience, creating a strong foundation for academic and personal growth. To have such a welcoming environment makes all the difference to the students.
"I love the community here," stated Lucas, a senior in IT. He continued by expressing how the small setting gives the students a chance to connect with people and help the teachers connect with the students. The Academies make “a small school smaller,” many of the students said.
From Passion to Purpose: Discovering Career Pathways
The Academies model empowers students to explore their interests, to discover potential career pathways, and to gain the skills that they need to embrace a future. Even if a student doesn't ultimately pursue a career directly related to their chosen pathway, the skills and experiences they gain are invaluable.
This is seen through student success and those graduates who are giving back to Waggener. Wyatt, a senior in the sports medicine pathway, is preparing for a five-year pipefitting apprenticeship. Even though his career path is different from his academy pathway, he feels that his time at Waggener helped him to prepare for the real world by discovering his passions and learning other essential workplace skills.
Building Confidence and Communication Skills
The Academies not only equip students with technical skills but also foster essential soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. Senior Lauren shared how participating in mock interviews as an ambassador helped her build confidence and overcome her shyness. This skill will serve her well in college and her career path. The mock interviews also have helped teach Lauren to “think on her feet.” When the students are able to build these relationships, then they can embrace a life of success.
Connecting Learning to Real-World Applications
The Academies model emphasizes the importance of connecting classroom learning to real-world applications. By integrating academic content with career-related experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of the relevance and value of their education. The partnerships with Dare to Care and others help make the student learning more tangible.
This can be seen as they continue to see that the world in Waggener helps meet them where they are and take them to where they need to be. "I love that there are so many passionate teachers here," said Carsen, a senior in the Health Science Academy. He recounted teachers who have supported him amidst challenges, seeking to know him by name and need.
Preparing for the Future: College and Career Readiness
Ultimately, Waggener High School's Academies are designed to prepare students for a successful future, whether they choose to pursue higher education or enter the workforce directly after graduation. Through dual-credit courses, industry certifications, and college counseling services, students gain a competitive edge and develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive.
From computer programming to web development, students are able to find a career field that allows them to embrace who they are as well as help change the world. "I just really appreciate the teachers as they prepare me to embrace my career," Max stated. Waggener is helping him prepare for a career in computer programming.
A Model of Belonging
As Waggener showcased its impact on students’ lives, the panel itself testified to this ongoing success through its student ambassadors. Techno, a student in the Law & IT pathway, shared that she entered Waggener as a freshman with high levels of anxiety, but because of the support she has received at Waggener, she had the courage and confidence to address the guests at the panel. Likewise, Clark immigrated to the United States in high school, and Waggener offered him a warm welcome. Like the rest of the student ambassadors, Techno and Clark have found belonging at Waggener. By fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and student-centered learning, Waggener is empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.