Junior Hailey Porter is cutting her high school career short and graduating a year early with the class of 2025.
Porter made the decision to graduate early, last year when she realized she would have enough credits to meet the graduation requirements, by the end of her junior year. Porter’s choice was made based on her aspirations for the future. “I don’t need it for the career I am going into,” Porter said.
Although she’s still in the early stages of this process, Porter has had the support of many adults in her life. GT specialist Ms. Tiffanie Becher has played an important role throughout Porter’s process. “Ms. Becher has been my biggest supporter, as my GT counselor,” stated Porter.
Along with Becher, class of 2026 counselor Ms. Marlene Rich has worked hard to get to know Porter and her future plans. Rich has met with Porter a few times already this year. “My job is to support students and their dreams no matter what it is,” Rich stated.
After graduating high school, Porter plans to get a full time job while she creates music and tests out different forms of art. “I want to start writing songs and maybe designing clothes,” said Porter.
Porter knows she is making the right decision for herself, however she often thinks about what she will be leaving behind. Involved in the arts, Porter will miss the chance to be in more theater productions and the opportunity to advance to the first violin section in chamber orchestra. “I’ll miss it, but that’s not as important to me as getting a head start on my future,” Porter responded.
