Alumni Spotlight: Casia Stoops

Options Schools, a renowned free, public charter school in Indiana, has a rich history of empowering students through personalized education. We take pride in nurturing students and guiding them toward success through personalized education. In this Alumni Spotlight, we dive into the inspiring journey of Casia Stoops, an Options Graduate and former student who found her path to success at Options Schools.

Ready to embrace a personalized education that ignites your potential? Discover how Options Schools can guide you on a transformative journey toward success. Contact us to explore our innovative programs!

Finding Options Schools

Casia Stoops began her academic journey at Options Schools during her sophomore year of high school and graduated in 2012 from Options Noblesville. Before finding Options, she struggled with the traditional schooling system, attending two different high schools without feeling a sense of belonging. Casia was also working part-time at a local fast-food restaurant and needed an educational route that would accommodate this time commitment.

Why Options Over Other Schools?

Upon hearing about Options Schools through friends, she took a leap of faith and registered herself. As she reminisces, “I felt like I belonged right from my first day of school.” This immediate connection to our school community set the stage for her academic and personal development. Casia recalls how there were many reasons why she applied to Options Schools – here are some:

Communication Matters

At Options, Casia experienced a transformative environment where communication was valued and exemplified. The maturity level among students and staff fostered a sense of confidence and readiness for life after high school. It was here that Casia learned the importance of effective communication, a skill that would serve her well in her future endeavors. Reflecting on her time, she shares, “Options showed me the correct way for adults to communicate, instilling a confidence that prepared me for the real world.” Our emphasis on maturity and respectful communication not only enhanced Casia’s educational experience but also equipped her with essential life skills.

Balancing Student & Work Responsibilities

The school’s understanding of students’ diverse needs, including the obligation to work to support their families, set Options apart. The curriculum was, and still is, designed to accommodate students with responsibilities outside of school, ensuring that learning remained engaging and manageable. She recalls that Options understood that some students did not have the privilege of just being students; they needed to hold jobs and take on additional responsibilities. Casia found a perfect balance between her academic pursuits and work commitments, thanks to the supportive environment at Options.

Engaging Coursework

Central to Casia’s success was the engaging and practical coursework offered at Options. The hands-on approach to learning not only made the curriculum more accessible for Casia but also catered to her unique learning style. She notes that schoolwork was hands-on, making it engaging and easier to retain, especially for someone who found it difficult to concentrate. This experiential learning approach helps foster a deep understanding of the subjects.

Impactful Teachers

The impactful relationships Casia formed with her teachers and peers underscore the tight-knit community at Options. Our dedicated educators not only impart knowledge but also mentor and support students on their paths to success. As Casia recalls, teachers and staff at Options were memorable. They just knew how to handle all situations and support each student. The guidance and mentorship she received from staff members like Melanie Martin-Terrell and Linda Cunningham continued to shape her long after graduation, highlighting the enduring impact of a supportive educational environment. Even after graduating, Casia continues to value the relationships she built with her teachers, underscoring the strong sense of community fostered at Options.

The mentor program also had a major impact on Casia, with her mentor Janice Johnson Smith having been very impactful on Casia’s determination to get through high school and also having helped lay the groundwork for future success. Janice also gave Casia a reflection of where Casia could see herself at Janice’s age due to her passion for helping and her compassion for the youth at Options.

Smaller Classrooms

Casia found the smaller classroom setting at Options to be particularly beneficial. The intimate learning environment provided a sense of comfort, reduced pressure, and facilitated effective communication among peers and teachers. Through smaller class sizes, Casia was able to form meaningful connections with her classmates and engage more actively in her studies.

Casia Stoops’ Continued Journey

Casia Stoops’ journey at Options Schools laid the foundation for her professional success, as she currently serves as a Hamilton County 911 Dispatcher. After applying for the position and not initially securing it, Casia’s determination and persistence eventually paid off when she was offered the job years later. In her role as a dispatcher, Casia applies the communication skills and maturity she gained at Options. 

Find Your Purpose at Options Schools

Casia Stoops’ story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the nurturing environment provided by Options Schools. Her journey from a struggling student to a confident and successful professional embodies the school’s commitment to empowering students and preparing them for the challenges of the real world. As we celebrate Casia’s achievements, we are reminded of the profound impact that dedicated educators and supportive communities can have on shaping the future generation.

Join us in celebrating the success of Options Schools alumni like Casia Stoops and discover how a personalized education can unlock your full potential. Contact Options Schools to learn more about our innovative programs and supportive community today.