Chloe’s Journey to Academic and Personal Growth

Student Profile

Chloe, an 11th-grade student attending a private Christian school, initially presented as a bright and capable student whose academic potential was overshadowed by significant struggles with organization, time management, and self-advocacy. She often lost track of assignments, submitted work late, and found herself overwhelmed by test preparation. Her school, concerned about her performance, had warned that she might need to leave if her grades didn’t improve. Chloe’s anxiety, compounded by her perfectionism, made it difficult for her to engage with teachers or use her accommodations effectively. Her parents, though supportive, had high expectations that often emphasized academic outcomes over addressing the root challenges tied to her ADHD.

Coaching Process

When Chloe began working with Ruth in early spring, their initial focus was on creating a clear and structured approach to managing her workload. Chloe lacked a system for tracking assignments, which led to a pattern of procrastination and last-minute cramming. Ruth guided Chloe in setting up a planner tailored to her needs, which allowed her to consolidate deadlines, plan study sessions, and break down larger tasks into manageable pieces. Chloe quickly embraced this strategy, motivated by her desire to improve.

One of Chloe’s earliest successes was organizing her physical and digital materials. Ruth introduced a straightforward filing system that helped Chloe keep track of important papers and assignments. This not only reduced the stress of misplaced materials but also gave Chloe a greater sense of control over her schoolwork.

As Chloe became more confident in managing her workload, Ruth turned her attention to building Chloe’s self-advocacy skills. Chloe had long avoided reaching out to teachers, fearing rejection or judgment. Together, they worked on drafting emails, practicing conversations, and rehearsing responses to various scenarios. These efforts paid off when Chloe addressed a grading issue with her physics teacher, successfully advocating for a revision after providing evidence of timely submission. This moment was a turning point, demonstrating to Chloe that she could navigate challenging situations effectively and independently.

Beyond academics, Ruth helped Chloe develop a stronger sense of self-care. Sleep had been a longstanding issue, with Chloe staying up late to perfect assignments or manage stress. Ruth worked with her to build a consistent evening routine, integrate breaks into her study schedule, and balance schoolwork with creative outlets like drawing and soccer. This holistic approach allowed Chloe to approach her work with renewed energy and focus.

Student Outcomes

By the time Chloe started her senior year, her transformation was evident. She had not only improved her grades across the board but also cultivated the independence and confidence to manage her responsibilities effectively. Chloe’s ACT score of 33 reflected her academic growth, and she entered the college application process with a clear plan, having already completed a well-crafted essay and assembled a thoughtful college list. Her ability to advocate for herself, use her accommodations effectively, and maintain a balanced routine positioned her for long-term success.

The partnership between Chloe and Ruth became a cornerstone of her growth. Ruth’s steady guidance and belief in Chloe’s potential helped her build a foundation of skills that extended far beyond academics. Chloe’s journey is a testament to the power of personalized coaching in empowering students to overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential.

*Identifying information has been modified to ensure student confidentiality.