Independent Study Student Kaylene PoChing Sings National Anthem at Graduation

Horizon Charter Schools’ 2020 Graduate Spotlight

A typical high school senior, Horizon Charter Schools graduate Kaylene PoChing enjoys reading and playing video games. She also loves to hang out with her friends. Looking to make one last, treasured memory from her high school journey, Kaylene volunteered — and was chosen by Horizon’s guidance counselors — to sing the national anthem for Horizon’s class of 2020’s virtual graduation ceremony.

“Horizon Charter Schools is a school that I’ve come to absolutely love, with its sense of understanding and community,” Kaylene explained. “I’m so grateful for the years spent here and will cherish the memories of Horizon.”

Asked why she wanted to sing the Star Spangled Banner, Kaylene said, “In a way, it was my thanks for the last four amazing years — thanks to my teachers, thanks to my peers. It was an absolute honor to sing it for graduation, and I hope everyone enjoys it!”

Visit our graduation post to view Horizon’s class of 2020 entire virtual graduation ceremony.

Individualized Education with a lot of Support

When asked what she liked best about being an independent study student at Horizon, Kaylene said, “I loved the support and resources available for me, and the loving environment with my peers and teachers. My favorite memory is the atmosphere from Mr. Kealy’s class. He always made his classes fun and interesting.”

“My supervising teacher, Laurie Collier, was truly one of the best teachers I’ve ever had in my life'” Kaylene continued. “She was supportive and encouraging. She always pushed me to do my best, and I’m so grateful for it.”

Brenda PoChing, Kaylene’s mom, agreed, stating that Laurie Collier was her favorite thing about Horizon. Brenda initially chose Horizon for Kaylene because she believed Kaylene would have better opportunities at Horizon and would get a more individualized education.

Brenda said her favorite memory as a parent educator was, “the look on my daughter’s face when she aced a test or understood a concept.”

“I’m very appreciative that Kaylene was able to attend Horizon,” Brenda added.

Independent Study Provides a Variety of Learning Opportunities

Kaylene started her independent study journey with Horizon in junior high. She spent her entire high school career taking advantage of Horizon Charter Schools’ many learning options, including participating in classes online, at Horizon’s Roseville Learning Center and through some of Horizon’s educational partners.

One of the opportunities Kaylene explored was completing the A-G courses, which is a 15-course sequence for UC/CSU Freshman Admission that includes classes in: social science, English, math, science, a language other than English (LOTE), visual and performing arts (VAPA), and electives. The State of California recognizes A-G Completion as one indicator a student is prepared for college and career. To complete the courses, Kaylene took Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry, English 9-12, all required science courses, Criminal Justice, Music Appreciation, Film, and Technology Exploration.

“I absolutely loved my Criminal Justice class! I’m heavy into true crime, and loved learning more about our justice system,” Kaylene said.

The independent study student also explored creative writing and took drivers education through one of Horizon’s vendors.

When reflecting on her class choices, Kayleen laughed and said, “I chose all of these due to my fluctuating passions over the years.”

Horizon Graduate Plans for College and Career

Kaylene plans to attend Sacramento State University in the fall. Although she hasn’t chosen a major yet, she knows she wants a career that will allow her to help people.

“I’ve been raised to value sympathy and compassion and knowing that I have helped people around me gives me the warmest feeling,” Kaylene explained. “I definitely would love to incorporate that into a career path.”

When asked to describe her daughter, Brenda lovingly said, “Kaylene is extremely passionate and is becoming more and more dedicated to furthering her education. She’s an honest person who always sees the best in people. I’m watching her grow into a beautiful young lady.”

We agree that Kaylene is a passionate, caring and beautiful person; she will be an asset to her community no matter what career path she chooses. We are thankful that we at Horizon Charter Schools were a part of this independent study student’s educational journey.

We wish Kaylene and her family continued success as the Horizon graduate builds her future.