During BSU meetings, we’ve been breaking down the portrayal of Black Americans in the media, such as music and film. We plan to create a positive change for the black community, which starts within, by debunking all the stereotypes towards African Americans so we don’t let them affect us and educate others. We better understand how to make things fair for all of us by revealing the unfairness of the world. So when we meet others or are promoting black stories, we can end the incorrect vision around Black Americans.

Learner Spotlight:  Gretchen Menesez

I’m Gretchen and I will be graduating from iLEAD in June. While I didn’t join the iLEAD team until I was in 7th grade, I am a lifelong independent studyer with a passion for music. I have been composing and writing my own songs, and I am part of the worship team at my church. Aside from music, I am an avid reader and a huge Harry Potter fan. To stay active, I participate in mud runs and other 5k runs, indoor rock climbing, and martial arts. I have earned my green belt with a black stripe and will continue on to earn my black belt. I love to take road trips. Last summer my family and I drove across the lower part of the United States, and I even did a large portion of the driving.

At iLEAD, I have become an independent learner with the flexibility to housesit, babysit, and pet sit, which has helped me save money for my future. After graduating, I will attend cosmetology school and work as a hairstylist. I love the art aspect of cutting and coloring hair. Being a stylist will also allow me to work with people while having a flexible schedule as I plan to independent study my future children. I’ve been interested in this career choice for quite some time, but this year I feel even more confident in this being the right path for me after taking a class called College and Career Readiness. While it is an elective, I think it is a valuable tool from which any iLEAD learner could benefit.

Schooling with iLEAD has provided opportunities to give back to the community. Each year I help to pack shoeboxes with supplies for less fortunate children across the world and also volunteer at the shoebox processing center. I can often be found acting in plays and skits at our church, participating in children’s ministry, and helping with summer programs. I believe independent studying with iLEAD has allowed me experiences that I might not have had in a traditional school setting. Most importantly, it has allowed me time to spend with my family and friends.