In this edition of Education Disruption, we’re talking to students of Map Academy just before they become official high school graduates. As part of their graduation requirements, these students were tasked with reflecting on the journeys that led them to this point.

Jayden faced several challenges at his previous high school — inadequate staff support, anxiety, depression, and bullying made him believe he would have no choice but to drop out. Throughout it all, though, Jayden found comfort in art. “I started drawing for fun, then in the long run it helped me with my mental health,” he says. Once Jayden found his way to Map, the staff encouraged his creativity, which made him feel comfortable expressing his full self at school. With the respect, individualized attention, and motivation he needed, Jayden was able to re-engage with school and get his diploma from Map.

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Education Disruption is a podcast by Map Academy — a free, public charter high school open to all Massachusetts students.

More about Map Academy: themapacademy.org

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