Braeden’s Journey of Setting and Achieving

It’s inspiring to see students set goals, work hard, and strengthen their skills along the way. Braeden, now a 12^th grader at the High Road School of Windham County, is a shining example of how a supportive school environment can help a student find their stride.

Discovering Motivation Through Interests

Braeden began his journey with High Road in 2019 at the former New London location. Early on, he needed one-to-one attention from his teacher, had difficulty staying on task, and struggled both academically and behaviorally.

Tuned into their students, Braeden’s teachers noticed his enthusiasm for Super Mario and motorcycles. They used those interests to help bridge his motivation for learning, completing classroom assignments, and rewarding his focus with chances to explore his favorite topics.

Academic and Behavioral Growth

During his time at High Road, Braeden has made remarkable progress, according to Ronda Turcotte, senior education director at High Road School of Windham County.

“Braeden scripts out his wants and goals,” she said. “When I think back to the little boy in New London, who couldn’t sit for a prescribed time or get to do the work, it’s incredible to see how far he has come. And to actually see him writing it [his goals] himself too, it’s quite impressive.”

Braeden’s goals now include returning to his local public school, getting a driver’s license, working at a fast-food restaurant, and joining a track team.

Braeden’s Journey of Building Confidence and Independence

Over the years, High Road staff witnessed Braeden make responsible choices, and his ability to engage with peers has also grown. “He wasn’t always able to interact with others,” Turcotte said. “However, there’s been growth with him talking to classmates, staying focused on what he needs to do, and sustaining different things in the classroom. He’s come such a long way.”

His mother, Heather, has remained a steady source of encouragement and pride. “He’s still making strides,” Heather said. “He’s doing better with his grades, and he’s become more conversational, such as asking others how they’re doing – he’s more receptive.”

Heather also appreciates the High Road environment and the team behind Braeden’s success.  

“High Road is great,” she shared. “There’s a strong staff-to-student ratio, plenty of support, and a well-rounded curriculum.”

She added that family involvement has been a key part of the High Road experience, from parent-teacher conferences, open houses and science fairs to art projects, field trips, and even seasonal activities such as Thanksgiving meals.

A Testament to Student Success and Family Support

From his early days at High Road to his senior year, Braeden’s achievements show what can happen when a student finds the right environment, is empowered, and believes in what’s possible.