Chloe Stegner began advocating with the National Coalition for Public School Options at the age of eleven when she attended her first Capitol Day event in Austin, TX. Now she is a freshman and Communications major at San Jacinto College after graduating from Texas Online Preparatory School this past June. She plans to transfer to Baylor University.

We are grateful to Chloe for taking the time to share her story on the blog today!

Learn how to share your story with us at the end of this article!

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PSO: Chloe, how did you discover your alternative schooling option and how has this choice allowed you to pursue your passions and interests?

Chloe: I came to virtual school after my older sister enrolled. I had tried every other schooling option from private school, traditional homeschool, and brick-and-mortar school, but none were a good fit for my learning needs. When I found virtual school, it was the perfect option for me and I thrived academically. I made the honor roll every year, became a member of NHS and NSHSS, and graduated in the top 10% of my class. Virtual school allowed me to pursue my passions for writing and travel, and gave me the freedom to become actively involved with community service projects and events, and advocacy.

PSO: What does “School Freedom” mean to you?

Chloe: School freedom means that students should have equal and unrestricted access to the type of schooling that works best for them.

PSO: Are there any misconceptions you’ve witnessed about alternative schooling options?

Chloe: Often there can be a misconception that one type of schooling is better than others because it is more widely used, but this is not the case. Each alternative schooling option is just as good as the other because they suit individual learning needs. Everyone should be able to pursue the right schooling option for them without facing backlash, bias, or judgment. As we say in Texas, you need to find the boot that fits.

PSO: Do you have a favorite moment from your time in advocacy? Can you tell us about that?

Chloe: My favorite moment in advocacy would be when I testified in front of the Texas Senate Board of Education. I testified on a bill relating to virtual schools and had the opportunity to speak to legislators about my education experience; I was also able to attest to the distinct differences between my established virtual school and the emergency remote learning programs from the pandemic.

PSO: What advice would you give to a student struggling in their current school? What are some tips for finding a school that is the right fit for them?

Chloe: No student should ever have to stay in a learning environment that is not beneficial to them. However, students might not know that there are other options available for them. My advice would be to have open lines of communication with their parents or guardians about their struggles. This way they can investigate their options together and find the best fit for them.

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Lightning round:

Favorite book: This is the hardest question! I will say Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch. (Though it seems impossible to pick just one)

Favorite quote: “Nothing ever becomes real until it is experienced.” - John Keats

Favorite podcast: I have to admit that as of yet, I am not a podcast listener.

Favorite hobbies: Reading and writing.

Coffee or tea: I drink both, but I would have to go with tea.

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For more information on how YOU can be featured on our blog email jessica@publicschooloptions.org.

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