Student Spotlight: Donasha’s Path to College
Student Spotlight: A Milestone Moment for Donasha
Donasha is officially college-bound.
After years of steady progress and determination, the senior at High Road School of Fairfield County earned acceptance to Connecticut State Community College in Norwalk, where she will begin classes in fall 2026. For Donasha, the acceptance marks a major milestone and a defining achievement in her high school career.
As an undergrad, she will study criminal justice and hopes to become a defense attorney. Her interest in courtroom cases and criminal justice documentaries sparked a desire to better understand why people make certain choices and how attorneys can advocate for them. College represents the first step toward turning that interest into a career.
Building Confidence and Academic Success
Since enrolling at High Road in 2022, Donasha has built strong academic routines and developed the confidence to advocate for herself. She completes assignments on time, maintains her grades, and seeks help when she needs it. As she entered her senior year, she committed to planning for her future and took an active role in the process.
Transition Planning and College Preparation
Donasha did not reach this moment alone. Transition services at High Road played a central role in developing a personalized postsecondary plan. Together, they explored college options, discussed financial aid, and mapped out each step of the application process. The team guided her through completing her college application and filing federal student aid forms. They also helped her secure essential documents, including her identification cards, and coordinated communication with the college.
To ensure she feels prepared for the shift to a larger campus environment, staff members began arranging visits to help her become familiar with the setting before classes began. Each step focused on building independence and confidence while providing the structured support she needed to succeed.
“Donasha’s story is truly something to be excited about,” said Victoria Williams, operations manager and special education teacher at High Road School of Fairfield County. “Going to college is not an easy feat these days. Donasha has shown determination, growth, and resilience every step of the way. She should be very proud of herself.”
Student Spotlight: Support and Leadership at High Road
Donasha credits the school’s smaller setting and hands-on support for helping her reach this point. “The support here and the staff, it’s different from public school,” she said. “They support me more. It’s more hands-on, and when I need help, I can go to someone.”
In addition to preparing for college, Donasha serves as president of the school’s Girls Club, where she plans activities that encourage students to support and uplift one another. The leadership role has strengthened her communication and advocacy skills as she prepares for her next chapter.
Looking Ahead to College and the Future
As graduation approaches, Donasha feels both excited and nervous about the transition ahead. Still, her college acceptance stands as a powerful reflection of her hard work and the comprehensive transition planning that helped her get there. She leaves High Road ready to take the next step and begin her college journey with confidence.
