Sawyer has worked hard over his four years at Spokane International Academy (SIA) to become more outgoing. “I used to be very shy and introverted. I was the only new student out of everyone in 9th grade,” he explained in his senior spotlight interview. “I knew I didn’t want my life to be staying in the back. My advisor Mr. Hyde knew my struggle. He helped me get into the flow and change that in 10th grade.” After running for the Associated Student Body Secretary, Sawyer had to give a school-wide campaign speech. “It was the first time I pushed my boundaries speaking in front of others.”
Thanks to the support of his teachers and the opportunities available to improve his social confidence, Sawyer managed to achieve his goal. “I’m now one of the most social people in my class!” he explained. When he started in Running Start college classes his junior year, he felt ready to meet new people despite the shorter classes and fewer opportunities for ongoing interaction. “In 12th grade, I’ve become the most vocal person in our classes who is comfortable speaking up.”
Choosing the Challenge
When it was suggested to Sawyer that he consider attending Spokane International Academy, the decision felt clear. He could either stay in his traditional high school with the friends he knew or try the school that seemed a better fit academically. He opted for the challenge. “There’s a big emphasis on individualized learning. Your teachers know what your learning style is, and they can work one-on-one with you. Classes are much smaller and there’s much fewer people there than a traditional high school. Being able to have that flexibility means they can give you more difficult classes.”
Sawyer’s teachers recognized he would excel if given the chance to stretch his skills: “I could take AP (Advanced Placement) classes right off the bat. AP classes were mandatory, not optional. They gave everyone the option to challenge themselves.” SIA’s individualized approach for its students also meant that Sawyer was given an opportunity to adapt to each teacher and improve his ability to thrive in different environments. “Not only were they all different with different teaching styles,” he said, “they all hit a different aspect of the academic challenges I needed. Different styles and diverse teachers helped me strengthen every single part of how I can do academically.”
Finding Connection
Sawyer knows that the “academy” structure can seem intimidating for some students, but he encourages new freshmen to talk to people when they arrive. “Get to know your teachers. They are always willing to have conversations and help you transition into this academy.” The same is true of his peers, too. “There’s a great group of students in younger grades who build connections and friendships. It’s not just all rigorous. There’s emphasis on the connections you build.”
One of the benefits of the smaller student population, Sawyer says, is the ability to easily connect with the high school counselor, Ms. Copeland. “Since there aren’t a thousand of us, she’s been able to drive home our future plans. We have a class with her on Friday called ‘College and Beyond’ that really emphasizes what the future looks like and that there’s more to this after high school.” Sawyer credits his relationship with Ms. Copeland as a key influence impacting his future plans. “I wouldn’t have had that kind of support if I wasn’t at Spokane International Academy. It would have been hard to get an appointment at a traditional high school. But you can get a meeting with her that day if you need help.”
What’s next for Sawyer
As the valedictorian of the first graduating class in the school’s history that started at SIA as freshmen, Sawyer is proud of his accomplishment and of his classmates. Next year, he’ll be heading off to Whitworth University in Spokane. He’ll only need to attend Whitworth for two more years to receive his bachelor’s since he’ll be graduating with his A.A. degree, thanks to the two years of college credits already under his belt. “I’m going to pursue my love for mathematics. It’s my strongest area and the one I love the most.” Although he’s not yet sure what career path he will follow, he’s certain that it will be a good fit. “Since elementary school it’s been my favorite. I love the computation and the challenge. There’s always some rational answer and some solution.”
Sawyer, we wish you well as you take this next big step to Whitworth and beyond. Your persistence, intelligence, and kindness are admirable and inspiring. Congratulations on your graduation and your bright future ahead!