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PORTLAND, OR (KPTV) — The new school year is fast approaching, and while some students may look forward to being reunited with classmates, not everyone can say the same. For those who suffer from social anxiety or depression, school can be a terrifying place.
“I was ready to go to high school. I was ready. I thought it was all going to be the same, but it was a big transition,” incoming high school senior Alia Gapay said.
On the first day of class, instead of walking through the doors of a brick and mortar school, she will open up her laptop and click a link to attend one of the multiple online courses.
“I remember feeling very isolated once I got to high school. it’s a hard place to be. I wasn’t learning. I wasn’t happy, and I just didn’t want to be there.”
Alia’s mom, Angela Horton Gapay, recalls the tough time her daughter had during her freshman year.
“I didn’t really understand the issues she was having at the public school. she knew about them, but I didn’t,” she said.
While searching for a better learning environment for Alia, they came across Oregon Connections Academy.
“It sounded awesome, but I didn’t follow up because I thought I’d have to pay,” Angela said.
According to school faculty, that is a common misconception. The virtual public school is, in fact, tuition-free.
And Alia said, “I thrive there. I’m graduating 2 years early.”
Despite the learning from home, she’s still getting plenty of opportunities to socialize. Between field trips, soccer, taking part in student government, and school dances Alia said she stays busy.
But she said, she now has more time for family.
“I spend a lot of time with my mom, and it’s embarrassing, she’s my best friend now and that’s a challenge,” she said while laughing.
Social anxiety made ORCA a good fit for the 15-year-old, but 39 percent of parents list “safety concerns” as the reason for enrolling their kids in the program, according to the school.
While Alia’s mom admits it isn’t for everyone, she said it’s been good for her daughter, who will graduate at 16 and plans to take a gap year to volunteer abroad.
The school often hosts public information sessions to answer questions parents might have. If interested in learning more, visit connectionsacademy.com/oregon-online-school.
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