Sometimes when things get hard and you don't get the help you need, you start to believe the problem is you. This had been my experience in traditional school for years. Things felt so much harder for me than they seemed for my friends or my classmates, and I spent a long time blaming myself for this because I wasn't motivated, or I was too slow to keep up with the rest of my class, or I had good ideas but found them impossible to get out of. I always viewed school as a horrible chore.

Last year, my junior year, my mom brought up Three Springs for the first time, urging me to consider other options after my struggles in traditional school had continued to get worse. Initially, I was against the idea. I wanted to be able to stick it out, graduate with all of my friends, and feel normal. So, I held out for another year, and things didn't get any easier. I struggled to pass many of my classes and often felt like I hadn't retained or accomplished enough to make it all worthwhile. It sometimes felt impossible to learn and connect in the fast-paced and impersonal way I was expected to, but in such a stressful environment, I felt I couldn't ask for help. Most teachers didn't notice what I was going through on their own, but how could they? 1000 kids under one roof allows very little room to breathe, and 35 in a classroom allows very little room for connection. Connection is one of the most valuable resources for a student to have. Junior year was exhausting; I couldn't stomach the thought of going back at the end of the summer. Less than a week before school started, I made my decision and sent in an application to Three Springs.

Pretty soon, I wished I hadn't waited another year to switch. Almost immediately I realized things were so drastically different at Three Springs, and within the first week, I felt like I knew every kid in my homeroom. More importantly, I felt I knew my teacher and liked her. In such a small and personal setting, I felt more comfortable sharing my ideas and stepping into leadership positions that I rarely would have at another school. I've learned that I really enjoy taking initiative and speaking up when I truly feel comfortable, and making mistakes and asking questions aren't things I dread as much as I used to. I used to feel anxious every night thinking about going to school the next day. I don't remember the last time I felt like that. 

If you don't think traditional school works for you, I suggest giving Three Springs a chance. Don't be afraid to make the choice that could support you in the long run. Alternative learning is not by any means a cure-all, but a new style and environment could be a big step to feeling more successful and engaged in your education. I know how much Three Springs has helped me; maybe it can be the thing that helps you, too.