Though she is only 13 years old, Katherine Cooper of Goshen, Indiana, is already an accomplished young woman. In fact, she will graduate from Ignite Christian Academy® before her 15th birthday!
"Katherine is an amazing young woman," said English teacher Mrs. Quint. "Her enthusiasm is boundless. She is an excellent student, and she is very mature."
Katherine started her distance learning education using the LIFEPAC® curriculum in kindergarten, and as she got older, she used Switched-On Schoolhouse®.
"We decided to homeschool all the way through high school," said Rebecca Cooper, Katherine's mother, "but we also recognized the value of an accredited high school diploma, so enrolling in ICA was the logical choice for us."
One of Katherine's favorite aspects of ICA has been the relationships she has built with her teachers.
"Katherine's experience with ICA has been extremely positive," said Rebecca. "Each teacher has taken time to treat her as an individual student, not just a faceless name on the other side of the Internet. They have taken time to not just answer messages that deal with schoolwork, but they have also rejoiced with her at exciting moments in her life. This personal interest by her teachers has meant a great deal to her."
After graduation, Katherine believes God wants her to study music in college. She plans to enroll in a few courses at a local community college before attending Indiana Christian University in South Bend, Indiana, for a two-year Bible program. Then, she hopes to attend a four-year college that offers a degree in contemporary Christian music or worship arts.
"Katherine believes God helps her stay focused," Rebecca said. "Because of her faith in God, she has taken time to seek God to find His direction for her future. Knowing what God has placed on her heart to study in college has helped her focus now on working hard to do her best in each class she takes, knowing there is a goal ahead of her. Katherine constantly amazes us at the things she can accomplish!"
In addition to her academic experiences, Katherine gives her all in other areas of life, especially piano, 4-H, and church. She has studied piano for seven years and competes in competitions on a regular basis. Soon, she will join her church's worship team as its keyboard player. In 4-H, she has been an officer for the past five years and also assists as a junior leader for elementary-aged children. Her interest in children also overflows into church as a volunteer for nursery and an aid for events and classes for elementary children.
Congratulations, Katherine, for being selected as ICA's November Student of the Month! May you continue to be the inspiration and role model your parents and all of us at ICA believe you are.
*Ignite Christian Academy's Student of the Month is chosen from a list of students recommended by the teachers and staff of ICA. This award recognizes the talented individuals who use their gifts for the glory of God. For more information, contact ICA online or call 800-682-7396.