The educators at Lowcountry Acceleration Academy work hard to create an environment where all feel welcome. From the gender-neutral bathrooms to the question “Which pronouns do you prefer?” — graduation candidates who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer feel instantly at home.

When Jamese Williams arrived at Sarasota Acceleration Academies, the first person to welcome her was a fast-talking, deep-feeling guy from the Bronx, Frank Cruz. And he didn’t leave her side until Jamese had realized her dream of a high school diploma.

Growing up in North Las Vegas, Hashima Carothers didn’t have a lot of money. But she had a spark of talent — both intellectual and academic — and people who stood ready to fan it.

Ashley Griffiths has always loved to read and write, and the English language arts coach wants to pass along that passion to her students.