Alumni Spotlight: Denny Leinhos
Denny Leinhos, a 2013 graduate of Options Schools, has a story that exemplifies resilience, determination, and the transformative power of personalized education. From facing attendance issues and struggling to receive support at a traditional high school, Denny’s journey took a significant turn when he transferred to Options Schools’ Carmel campus during his junior year in 2012. What set Denny’s experience at Options apart was the school’s unique approach that allowed him to thrive both academically and professionally.
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Denny’s Background
Upon transferring to Options Schools, Denny brought with him a passion for entrepreneurship, evidenced by his ownership of a town car transportation business at just 16 years old. However, juggling school responsibilities with his burgeoning business proved challenging. Despite his attendance problems and ADHD diagnosis, Denny found it difficult to get the necessary assistance from his teachers. It was at Options Carmel that he found the support and flexibility he needed to succeed.
What Options Did Differently
At Options, Denny was given the flexibility to prioritize his business endeavors while maintaining his academic progress. The school’s accommodating approach allowed him to attend classes as needed, focusing on completing his work rather than adhering to a rigid traditional schedule. The hybrid model of online and on-campus classes provided him with the ideal balance to graduate while nurturing his business.
Denny fondly recalls the welcoming and inclusive environment at Options, highlighting the diversity of the student population and the sense of camaraderie that flourished due to the school’s smaller size. Far from feeling like a face in the crowd, Denny found a supportive community that embraced his individuality and ambitions.
Starting His Business
Driven by his entrepreneurial spirit, Denny ventured into the limousine business at a young age, initially assisting his girlfriend’s parents and later establishing his own company, Avant Garde Limousines, Coach & Transportation. Despite facing hurdles due to his age, particularly in obtaining an LLC, Denny persevered with the unwavering support of his mother, who stood by his side throughout the journey.
Adapting his business to collaborate with Uber proved to be a strategic move, allowing him to reach a broader clientele and enhance the efficiency of his operations. What began as a hobby soon blossomed into a thriving enterprise, encompassing a diverse fleet of vehicles and services.
Growing The Business
Opting to pursue his entrepreneurial ambitions over traditional higher education, Denny devoted his energy to expanding his business while working full-time in sales for a Lincoln dealership. The challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic tested Denny’s resilience, prompting him to innovate by incorporating charter buses into his services. This strategic decision not only sustained his business during challenging times but propelled its growth to new heights.
Today, Denny boasts a fleet of 28 vehicles, ranging from sedans and SUVs to limos and school buses, a testament to his resourcefulness and willingness to adapt.
Joining The Board of Education at Options Schools
Denny’s connection with Options Schools was reignited when he attended a campus event in August 2024 and witnessed firsthand the profound impact the institution had on many of its students. Motivated by his role as a father and a desire to give back to the community, Denny decided to interview for a role with the Board of Education at Options. Drawing parallels between his business ethos and his newfound role, Denny emphasized the importance of showing up and advocating for the students and the school.
As a board member, Denny leverages his personal experience as a student at Options Schools, his business insight, especially in the realm of school buses, and his community connections to contribute meaningfully to the school’s growth and success.
Denny’s Journey Comes Full Circle with Options Schools
Reflecting on his journey from a struggling student to a flourishing entrepreneur and board member, Denny emphasizes the profound transformation he witnessed at Options Schools. Evolving from a school known for catering to suspended students, Options has emerged as a nurturing environment where students, like himself, facing challenges in traditional settings can excel and thrive.
Denny’s story serves as a powerful example of how personalized education and unwavering support can pave the way for success. He remains committed to giving back to the school that played a pivotal role in shaping his future.
To discover how Options Schools can empower students to achieve their full potential, reach out to us today!
