“Everyone at Lighthouse goes above and beyond to ensure that all students are prepared for college. Regardless of the student’s needs, the faculty is always willing to pull together and make sure students stay on track.” Brianna Champion said in describing Gary Lighthouse Charter School (GLCS), where she has been since fifth grade when the school opened in 2005.
Brianna’s favorite subject is Spanish. She knows that speaking another language will empower her to interact with more of the world and allow her to broaden her horizons. She enjoys learning about new cultures and traveling. She plans to spend a semester studying abroad in college.
Brianna will attend St. Ambrose University in Iowa in the fall. She plans to study Spanish and accounting. She is already planning to continue on to graduate school and to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Brianna is ready for college thanks to GLCS. Through the strong character education program, she has learned not only how to manage her time and to work hard, but also to be patient, loyal, compassionate, proud and confident. Brianna is confident in her ability to succeed.
Brianna has also taken advantage of the extracurricular programs at GLCS. Through her experience on Student Council, she has learned to be a leader and a team player. In managing the pizza sale fundraiser, she had to make announcements to inform the staff and student body of the details on a regular basis. She gained confidence in public speaking while developing her leadership skills.
Brianna has been particularly inspired by Ms. Morris, her English teacher. Ms. Morris taught her that hard work and determination will take you beyond your expectations. Most importantly, Ms. Morris has taught her to ask questions; that no question is unacceptable. Ms. Morris always takes the time to answer all of the students’ questions even if that means spending time after school.
In addition, Brianna is inspired by her five younger siblings. Brianna will be the first to attend college and is determined to set a good example for them. She is leading by example, showing them that working hard and believing in yourself brings opportunity and allows for success.
The most important thing that Brianna has learned at GLCS is never to stop working towards your goals. She understands that following through until tasks are completed and meeting deadlines is essential to success. She is looking forward to college although she will miss the staff and whole GLCS community.
More from Brianna…
Favorite GLCS Memory: The dinner with her class and faculty before taking the ACT test. The staff put together a video for encouragement. This dinner showed her how much they care about the scholars!
Advice to Freshmen: Focus from the beginning – it will pay off.
Advice to upcoming Seniors: Stay CALM! Don’t let the stress get to you.