During a difficult divorce, my immigrant single mother made the decision to homeschool my sister and me while working part-time and carrying the full responsibility of raising us on her own. With little support and an often-overwhelming court process, our home life was marked by instability, frequent transitions, and emotional strain.
Much of my childhood was spent moving between therapists’ offices and visitation centers, balancing academic work with the realities of a challenging family situation. During those years, homeschooling provided the consistency we needed. It allowed my education to continue, even when other parts of life felt uncertain.
By the time I reached high school, it became clear that homeschooling was no longer the right fit. While I was ahead in several subjects and on track in others, I needed a more structured and challenging environment.
We considered public school, but the local system was struggling with declining performance and leadership instability. It did not offer the level of academic support or opportunity I was looking for.
Everything changed when I received the Education Tax Credit Scholarship through the Children’s Scholarship Fund. This made it possible for me to attend a private school and the impact was immediate. In a more supportive and engaging environment, I was able to challenge myself academically and grow in ways I had not experienced before.
During high school, I was also diagnosed with Lyme disease, which added a new layer of challenge to my education. During this time, I was able to use Education Freedom Accounts to continue going to school while being treated for my diagnosis. During high school, I had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala and Costa Rica. These experiences broadened my perspective, grew my love of learning about other places and people, and deepened my interest in serving others.
Through my involvement with Children’s Scholarship Fund, I met mentors like the organization’s Executive Director Kate Baker and became an advocate for school choice. I spoke with donors and testified before legislative bodies, sharing how access to the right educational environment had transformed my experience.
In my senior year, I witnessed the expansion of New Hampshire’s Education Freedom Accounts program—an achievement that will expand opportunities for future students seeking the same support that changed my path.
Because of educational choice, I was able to move from an environment of uncertainty to one of growth and opportunity. Today, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in international diplomacy and continue advocating for students and families who need access to educational options that meet their unique circumstances.
I am grateful for the Education Freedom Account program and Children’s Scholarship Fund for allowing me access to education and the ability to thrive.
