For a lot of students, the phrase “high school” doesn’t come with pep rallies and yearbook smiles. It comes with anxiety, missed credits, disciplinary slips or the quiet belief that school just isn’t a place where they belong.

Julio Ortiz Ríos, Ed.D., joined the Lee County Acceleration Academies team in Fort Myers, Fl., in February as academy director, bringing more than a decade of experience to the role. Get to know more about his background, leadership journey and heart for students in this Q&A.

When twin sisters Amaya and Aubrey walked through the doors of Santa Rosa Acceleration Academies last August, they weren’t sure what to expect.

On most days at DeKalb County Acceleration Academies (DAA), you’ll find Terrell and Jayden not too far from each other — joking, checking in on their course progress and quietly keeping each other accountable.

Duval County students have a new option for earning a high school diploma in Jacksonville, and it’s built for those who need flexibility, support and a personalized path to graduation.

For many families, the middle of the school year can bring unexpected challenges — academic struggles, schedule conflicts, social issues or simply the realization that a student’s current school just isn’t the right fit.

When you meet 17-year-old Victoria Lopez — affectionately known as Tori by her friends and family — you’re struck by her warmth, confidence and passion for helping others.

For many people, success doesn’t have to mean a four-year college degree. In fact, there are plenty of careers that offer great pay, stability and opportunities for growth — all with just a high school diploma, a strong work ethic and maybe some additional certifications or apprenticeships.

At 19, Julius Hall has big dreams of joining the U.S. Air Force. There is just one thing standing in his way: a high school diploma.