Wiring Her Future: Jewels Jackson's Path of Discovery at Valley High School
Failing algebra four times and battling depression, Jewels Jackson's middle school years were a landscape of academic struggle. Her senior year at Valley High School reveals a dramatically different narrative. Now confidently pursuing dual career pathways and serving as a school ambassador, Jewels has transformed from a struggling student to an accomplished young woman with a bright future.
From Isolation to Exploration
Middle school proved challenging for Jewels. Uninvolved in extracurricular activities and struggling academically, she received mostly unsatisfactory grades. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these challenges, creating a period of isolation that further disconnected her from learning. Remote schooling eliminated social interactions and structured support. "I mainly received Us [Unsatisfactory grades] in middle school," Jewels recalls, highlighting her disconnection from learning.
Jewels' transition to Valley High School marked a critical turning point. "I didn't know what I was going to do when I got here," she admits. Initially, she explored various pathways, including veterinary science and EKG technician courses. However, these pursuits didn't spark her passion until she experienced the hands-on electrical pathway. "I enjoyed the hands-on aspect of electrical," she reflects, noting how this practical approach resonated with her in a way previous academic experiences hadn't.
As a senior in both the Clinical Medical Assisting and Electrical pathways, she has found success through Valley High School's innovative academic structure and supportive community. The school's flexible approach allowed her to explore multiple interests and ultimately discover her true potential.
“I grew into myself at Valley.”
Jewels meeting Senator Gerald Neal with fellow ambassadors, principal Jennie Currin, and Academy Coach Amanda Comstock
Personal Growth and Achievements
Valley High School played a crucial role in Jewels' personal growth, helping her overcome social anxiety and depression. "I grew into myself at Valley," she reflects. The school's supportive environment and her friends were instrumental in her transformation. Mr. John Spiva, her electrical pathway instructor, served as a key mentor, providing guidance that helped her develop confidence in her technical skills and personal abilities.
Her achievements showcase her remarkable growth. As a sophomore, she earned her CPR certification and completed her EOP in management and entrepreneurship. In her junior year, Jewels passed Electrical Level I and NOCTI core and competed in the high school science fair, placing 3rd at both school and regional levels for her research project on birth control's effect on pain tolerance.
Leadership and Community
Beyond academics, Jewels developed strong leadership skills. Her junior year marked her first year as an Academy Ambassador, a role she continued in her senior year. She helped guide and mentor other students, serving as a bridge between prospective and current students. This year, she was chosen as one of two Valley representatives on the Student Ambassador Leadership Team.
Reflecting on her social connections, Jewels notes, "Having friends who understand and support you makes all the difference in high school." She and her friends have pushed one another to succeed, creating a collaborative and motivating environment that facilitated her personal growth.
Looking Forward
Her senior year continues to be successful, with plans to take the CCMA exam in April and finish her second year of electrical apprenticeship. Reflecting on her journey, Jewels offers advice to incoming freshmen: "Find a group of people who will push you to succeed... and try!"
From failing algebra four times and battling depression in middle school to becoming an Academy Ambassador and star student, her story is a powerful testament to transformation. As she prepares to graduate, Jewels plans to attend trade school and pursue a career in the electrical trade, specifically aspiring to work in commercial or motor control electrical systems, proving that with perseverance and support, one can rewire their own narrative.