---
title: Newspaper Spotlights Bethel Grad’s Triumph Over Adversity
description: Discover the story of Bree Thom's triumph over adversity at Bethel Acceleration Academies as she overcame challenges to earn her high school diploma.
image: https://info.accelerationacademies.org/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Bree2Bstory2B.jpg
---

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# Newspaper Spotlights Bethel Grad’s Triumph Over Adversity

December 16, 2020 | Jeffrey Good

![Newspaper Spotlights Bethel Grad’s Triumph Over Adversity image](https://info.accelerationacademies.org/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Bree2Bstory2B.jpg)

Bree Thom grew up in a household riven by drug addiction, but she decided she wanted something better. Her search led her to Bethel Acceleration Academy, where she found a learning community that helped her become her best self and, in December, earn her high school diploma. The Tacoma-based News Tribune recently published a feature story on Bree, fellow grad and adopted brother Israel Phillips and BAA staff member Starr Phillips, a.k.a. Mom. [Read the full story here.](https://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/article247759820.html)

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