The LeeWay Academy Orientation is your Guide to the 2025-26 School Year ORIENTATION VIDEO FOR ALL CURRENT & NEW LEEWAY FAMILIES LeeWay Academy is a concierge high school. We literally build an entire school for each and every one of our students. Our level of customization allows us to eliminate busy work, focus lesson on exactly what you are missing, and ultimately increasing your overall learning in a fraction of the time of your old school. Our school year starts 8/15/25 but classes start at varying times. LeeWay curates each class through outside resources and as long as they have openings, we can start you in a class. We can pause classes at will to give you time to travel, recover, or just do something that become a priority at that time. Breaks are summer, winter, spring, and fall. We take a 30 day winter break from 12/15-1/15 then spring semester starts 1/15/26. We have a 2 weeks spring break in March then classes finish by the end of May. These dates are simply guidelines but since each class is custom, it will start and end on its own unique schedule. Graduation is May & June (yep, that is custom as well so each student will have their own individualized graduation event). Summer is June and July and students can choose to take the time off to focus on internships, jobs, college planning, or just having fun! Other students will complete classes with our college program to save money and time at university after they graduate. If you are currently in LeeWay Academy, please watch the video above to become familiar with the LeeWay Academy process and to prepare for the upcoming semester. DOWNLOAD PDF - If you want to scrub through each slide and take your time then download this PDF and watch at your leisure.

Your Master Essay is one of the four most important factor in the College Admissions process! When you apply to any college, you will be asked to turn in several documents which they will use to determine your admission. Colleges will want a transcript, some references, an academic resume, and most colleges will ask for an essay or personal statement. Admissions committees put the most weight on your high school grades and your test scores, but when push comes to shove, your essay will carry a lot of weight. Whether you are applying via CommonApp , Coaltion , ApplyTexas ,   UCAS , UCal or other, choosing one of these two prompts will allow you to build a universal master essay that will fit well into any application. Prompt 1 - Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? Prompt 2 - Most students have an identity, an interest, or a talent that defines them in an essential way. Tell us about yourself. ESSAY RULES Your essay should be approximately 500 words. You can edit it up or down slights as needed for a particular app. Your essay should be grammatically correct and carefully edited for typos. Make sure your essay is typed and submitted at the same time as you app. Do not include any specific university in your master essay. But you can customize. Do not include information that does not help explain you as a student/applicant. Do not include inaccurate or false information. A FEW ESSAY TIPS Write about something that's important to you.  It could be an experience, a person, a book—anything that has had an impact on your life. Don't just recount—reflect! Anyone can write about how they won the big game or the summer they spent in Rome. When recalling these events, you need to give more than the play-by-play or itinerary. Describe what you learned from the experience and how it changed you. Being funny is tough. A student who can make an admissions officer laugh never gets lost in the shuffle. But beware. What you think is funny and what an adult working in a college thinks is funny are different. We caution against one-liners, limericks and anything off–color. Start early and write several drafts. Set it aside for a few days and read it again. Put yourself in the shoes of an admissions officer: Is the essay interesting? Do the ideas flow logically? Does it reveal something about the applicant? Is it written in the applicant’s own voice? No repeats.  What you write in your application essay or personal statement should not contradict any other part of your application–nor should it repeat it. This isn't the place to list your awards or discuss your grades or test scores. Answer the question being asked. Don't reuse an answer to a similar question from another application. Have at least one other person edit your essay. A teacher or college counselor is your best resource. And before you send it off, check, check again, and then triple check to make sure your essay is free of spelling or grammar errors. If you can afford it, have your essay professionally edited. THINGS YOU MIGHT INCLUDE Exceptional hardships, setbacks or personal experiences that have shaped your abilities or academic credentials (illness, disability, death, finance, etc.) Personal responsibilities (i.e. children, employment, caring for ill or aging parent/guardian, etc.) Exceptional achievements - academic or special talents (such as National Honor Society, poetry, music, art, bilingual proficiency, etc.) Educational goals and choice of major. Leadership experiences (Student Council, R.O.T.C., and other school, community and religious clubs or organizations) Learning disabilities (i.e. dyslexia, etc.) but approach this topic carefully. Ways you have associated with the university (i.e. family members or close friends who’ve attended the university, visits to the campus, etc.) Work history (specify hours and times) Community service involvement (specify hours and times) NOTE - It is sometimes helpful to include documentation or contact references for verification purposes when you include something that is particularly impressive or notable. GET HELP - For professional help either online or in the DFW Metroplex, check out THE WRITE COACH,

Are you a high school student excited to explore a subject that ignites your passion? Preparing for college can feel like a huge challenge, but engaging in research will put you on a solid path. In this guide, we will explore how to launch your independent research project, find mentorship, and even get published—all while you’re still in high school. Building on experiences at Harvard Business School and leading the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, we’ll give you everything you need for a successful research journey. What is an Independent Research Project? Independent research is a systematic investigation into an academic question. The topic you choose can vary widely, depending on your interests. The primary aim is to answer a specific question using a structured approach. For instance, this may involve advanced data analysis, a thorough review of scholarly papers, or designing your own experiments. Many high school students have successfully tackled impressive topics. For example, a student might investigate the effects of climate change on agricultural production in Mumbai, focusing on how changing weather patterns could reduce crop yields by up to 20%. Another might examine non-viral methods for delivering CRISPR/Cas9, contributing to the fast-growing field of genetic editing. We have also seen analyses of AI strategies from the European Union that highlight implementation challenges and successes. Each of these projects reflects a unique methodology developed by students with minimal prior research experience. So, are you ready to make your mark? You absolutely can do this! Steps to Creating Your Independent Research Project Step 1: Choose Your Topic Choosing a topic is the first step in your independent research journey. Pick something that genuinely interests you. Ask yourself: What questions do I want to explore? This excitement makes the research process more enjoyable. Spend some time brainstorming and jotting down your ideas. For example, if you are fascinated by renewable energy, consider investigating the effectiveness of solar panels in different climates or the potential of wind energy in urban areas. After compiling your list, do some background reading to see if existing research aligns with your interests. Step 2: Craft Your Research Question Once you’ve found a general topic, it’s essential to narrow it down to a specific research question. This question will guide your entire project, so it should be clear and focused. A great research question often starts with "how" or "why," encouraging deeper investigation. Instead of asking, “What is climate change?”, reframe it as, “How does climate change affect the prevalence of diseases like malaria in tropical regions?” A focused question will streamline your research efforts and lead you to relevant data sources. Step 3: Conduct a Literature Review Next, perform a literature review. Gather existing research, articles, and papers related to your topic. This will help you understand the current discourse and identify gaps your work could fill. Utilize academic databases and libraries to find credible sources. For instance, PubMed can provide numerous articles on health and environmental sciences. Take diligent notes to organize your findings, which will support your arguments later in your research. Step 4: Design Your Methodology Now, decide how you’ll approach your research. Will you conduct experiments, run surveys, or perform a case study? Tailor your methodology to your question and available resources. For instance, if your research question involves studying the effect of a new teaching strategy on high school students’ math scores, you could use a combination of surveys and test scores. A rigorous and systematic approach enhances your work's credibility and deepens your understanding of the subject matter. Step 5: Find a Mentor Searching for a mentor to guide you is invaluable. This could be a teacher, a professor, or a professional in your field. Having someone experienced will refine your project and help you navigate challenges. Identify individuals with expertise in your chosen subject. They can provide feedback on your research design and question, as well as insights that can improve your project's outcome. For example, a mentor could help reshape your research question or suggest resources for data collection. Step 6: Conduct Your Research Once you have a clear question, defined methodology, and a mentor, it’s time to dive into your research. This may involve collecting data, running experiments, or analyzing existing datasets. Stay organized as you document your findings. Use a lab notebook or a digital document to record your process, results, and insights. This organized record will be essential when compiling your final research paper. Step 7: Write Your Research Paper When your research is complete, compile your findings into a comprehensive research paper. This should include an introduction outlining your research question, a literature review, your methodology, results, discussion, and a conclusion. Make sure your paper follows academic writing standards. Be clear and concise. Remember, your writing should convey not only your findings but also your journey as a researcher. Aim for a thorough yet approachable style that engages readers. Step 8: Publish Your Work Finally, share your research with a broader audience. Look for opportunities to present your findings at academic conferences, submit your work to student journals, or create a poster presentation. Don't hesitate to showcase your hard work! Publishing your research enhances your resume and opens doors for future opportunities in college and beyond. Consider the example of a student who presented their findings on renewable energy systems at a national science fair and received offers from various colleges owing to their impressive work. Getting Started Embarking on an independent research project in high school can be one of the most fulfilling academic experiences. From selecting a topic to publishing your findings, each step offers growth and prepares you for future academic challenges. You don't need prior research experience to get started. The key is to embrace your curiosity, seek mentorship, and maintain a rigorous approach to your investigation. By doing so, you’ll enhance your understanding of your field and equip yourself with valuable skills for college and beyond. So what are you waiting for? Dive into the exciting world of research and unlock your full academic potential today!

Homeschooling high school can initially seem challenging; however, with thoughtful planning, it can transform into a fulfilling and successful adventure. This guide will help you navigate the process of homeschooling your teen, ensuring they receive a solid education as they prepare for their futures. With a focus on practical tips and real-life success stories, we hope to motivate you and boost your confidence. Remember, as a homeschool mom, you are capable of guiding your child through these important years! And with help, you can do it better than any public or private school can. Having successfully graduated one high schooler and currently mentoring a second, I know firsthand the anxiety that accompanies homeschooling teenagers. Transitioning from elementary or middle school curricula may feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies in place, your student's success is achievable. Understand High School Graduation Requirements To start homeschooling in high school, it is crucial to gain a clear understanding of what your child needs to learn and how to formulate their transcripts. Each state maintains specific regulations for homeschoolers, so doing your homework on your state's guidelines ensures that your child can meet the necessary credit requirements for graduation. The great thing about homeschooling is with an umbrella like LeeWay Academy, you can meet the state requirements The ideal high school curriculum includes: 4 years of English or Language Arts (covering Literature, Composition, and Creative Writing) 4 years of Math (including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Statistics or Business Math) 4 years of Science (including Biology, Integrated Physics & Chemistry (IPC), and Physics) 3-4 years of Social Studies (like World History, U.S. History, Government, and any fun science that motivates your particular student. Think astronomy, forensics, archeology, meteorology, psychology, sociology, religion, etc.) 2+ years of a Foreign Language (must be in the same language but be replaced by computer programming or ASL) 1 year of Health & PE (sports or just an online health curriculum) 1 year of Fine Art (dance, theater, film, art, painting, jewelry, metal work, etc) 4 years of High School Electives & Extracurriculars (which may involve Art, Music, PE, a Job or Business classes) Familiarizing yourself with these requirements allows you to design a focused educational plan tailored to your child's academic journey. Create a Customized Curriculum After you've understood the legal requirements, it becomes essential to create a customized curriculum that aligns with your student’s needs and interests. One of the joys of homeschooling is tailoring education to suit your child's learning style, transforming it from a requirement into an exciting opportunity! Begin by exploring different curriculum options. For instance, consider using traditional textbooks alongside online courses from platforms such as Khan Academy or Coursera. You could also incorporate community education classes, which often offer specialized subjects like coding or photography. Don’t forget to weave in your child's passions. If your teen is interested in environmental science, consider integrating project-based learning that involves research or community service related to conservation. A student passionate about music can benefit from lessons or even starting a band with friends. Allowing your child to explore their interests can help shape their potential career paths. Stay Organized with Planning Tools Staying organized is critical in forging a successful homeschooling experience. Create a straightforward system using online planners or spreadsheets to track your teen's assignments, tests, and projects. For example, establish a weekly schedule that lays out the intended subjects while also allowing for flexibility. A typical week could involve dedicated math hours on Mondays and Wednesdays, while Tuesdays and Thursdays focus on history and science, respectively. This method helps maintain structure, which fosters a love for learning alongside exploration. Find a planning style that resonates with your family. It may be a traditional school day from 9 AM to 3 PM or a more relaxed approach that allows for spontaneous learning opportunities. Incorporate Life Skills High school should not solely focus on academic success; it is also an important time to teach practical life skills that will be beneficial in college and adulthood. Incorporate subjects such as personal finance—students can learn how to create budgets or understand investments. Cooking classes can teach meal preparation and nutrition, while basic car maintenance can prepare them for independent living. Encouraging volunteer work or internships allows your teen to gain real-world experience. Engaging with local businesses or organizations can help develop critical thinking, responsibility, and adaptability—skills that serve them well throughout life. Consider External Resources Don't hesitate to seek external resources! Connect with homeschooling networks, local groups, and online communities to find support and share experiences. Many families benefit from group activities, such as cooperative learning or field trips, which provide not only social interaction but also academic collaboration. Participating in group projects or virtual classes can foster a sense of community while expanding your child’s learning experience. For instance, a local homeschool network might organize science fairs or art showcases, allowing students to work together on projects and celebrate each other's achievements. Prepare for College If your teenager aspires to attend college, starting preparations early is vital. Research institutions and their entrance criteria, noting specific requirements for subjects and standardized tests. Keep meticulous records of completed coursework and develop transcripts that provide a clear overview of academic performance. Organizations such as the LeeWay Academy offer guidance on legal compliance and transcript creation. Encourage your teen to explore college options. Visiting campuses, attending events, and learning about various programs can help them make informed decisions. Statistics indicate that more than 60% of high school seniors change their college choice by the time they enroll. Having comprehensive knowledge of potential schools empowers your child to navigate this process more confidently. Celebrate the Learning Journey Homeschooling high school may initially appear daunting, but remember that it is also a rewarding journey. Celebrate small achievements, practice patience during challenges, and find joy in the learning process. You are teaching not just subjects but instilling life lessons that will significantly shape your child's future. Foster curiosity, connect subjects to real-world experiences, and encourage thoughtful decision-making throughout your homeschooling journey. Every family’s path is unique; what works for one may not suit another. Leverage your individual strengths and trust your ability to nurture your child's educational growth. Final Thoughts As you embark on your homeschooling high school journey, remember that thorough planning, research, and proper organization can lead to a fulfilling educational experience. Your efforts will not only prepare your child for graduation but also equip them for future endeavors—be it pursuing a college degree, entering the workforce, or honing vital life skills. Every family's experience is unique, but with these tips and a supportive community, any parent can successfully navigate this exciting chapter. To all the moms feeling uncertain about homeschooling high school, take a deep breath, plan intentionally, and trust your instincts. You are empowered to provide a strong educational foundation for your children. You've got this!

USE YOUR SUMMER BREAK TO EXPLORE CAREER OPTIONS & BUILD YOUR RESUME How should students spend their high school time during the summer? Here are 6 fun, and productive ways! Summer is your time to step back from the pressures of school and focus on what truly matters to you. Whether that’s diving into a passion project, spending quality time with friends and family, or preparing for your next big academic milestone, you have the power to shape these months into something truly rewarding! Our goal is to help you make this summer a balance of fun, growth, and inspiration—and maybe even spark some ideas you haven’t thought of yet. We’ve seen students approach their summers in countless ways, from building resumes to pursuing hobbies—and every approach teaches something invaluable. In this guide, we’ll explore practical strategies to ensure your summer is not just enjoyable, but also purposeful and enriching. Your summer is a blank canvas, full of possibilities. Whether you dream of learning a new skill, giving back to your community, or simply taking time to relax, this is your moment to turn aspirations into reality. Summer is more than just a vacation—it’s a stepping stone to new opportunities, personal growth, and lifelong memories. It’s a unique window to explore passions, develop skills, and prepare for the future—a chance to grow, discover, and set yourself up for success in the coming school year and beyond! So, how will you make the most of yours? Let’s explore how to make this summer your most meaningful one yet. Pursue A Hobby Or Discover A New One Exploring your interests should be enjoyable, not stressful! Treat this summer as a playground for discovery. Use this time to develop skills that excite you! Build And Learn A New Skill You can boost your skills through online platforms like Khan Academy , Coursera , or Skillshare . For example, you might enroll in a graphic design course if you’re creative, or learn Python programming if you’re interested in technology. Prefer hands-on learning? Look for local workshops on photography, painting, or baking. Love baking? Then experiment with new recipes and consider selling your creations to neighbors or friends. Fascinated by music? Try recording your own songs, creating playlists that reflect your mood, picking up a new instrument, or composing your own tunes. Take a class at a local commun ity college So you don’t have to take it during the school year And you’ve got something that looks super fancy on your transcript. Start your own creative project If you love writing, challenge yourself to write short stories or begin a blog about your favorite topics. If filmmaking excites you, create a short video series with your smartphone. Got an entrepreneurial streak? Design and sell custom artwork or handmade crafts online. By the end of summer, you’ll have something tangible that showcases your creativity and dedication. Not sure where to start? Try something out of your comfort zone, like pottery, woodworking, or even learning magic tricks. The goal is to experiment and have fun while discovering talents you never knew you had. Remember, it’s about finding joy in the process while also learning something new! These learning experiences not only help you grow but also add depth to your resume or college applications. Your passions are a window to your future, and summer is the ideal time to cultivate them. Set a goal and dedicate time to it each week. This doesn’t just give you a sense of purpose; it’s also a chance to build skills and leave summer with a way to showcase your growth.

Graduation marks an exciting transition for students and their families. As young adults prepare to leave high school and embark on new adventures, it’s important to celebrate this significant achievement. With traditional ceremonies evolving, parents and educators are eager for fresh, innovative ideas. Here are ten unique graduation ceremony hacks you can use to make the Class of 2025's celebration unforgettable! 1. Play the Congratulations Video on the Screens One powerful way to enhance the graduation experience is to show a special "Congratulations" video on large screens during the ceremony. This video can highlight key moments from the graduates' time in school, including achievements, milestones, and heartfelt messages from family, friends, and teachers. Displaying this video at key moments, like when graduates enter, makes the event more moving. To personalize the experience even more, encourage students to submit their own clips or memories. This collective nostalgia fosters a sense of unity among classmates. Customize your decorations! 2. Stage Up Photo Booths Photo booths are a fun and interactive staple of any celebration. To capture unforgettable moments, set up themed photo booths featuring eye-catching backdrops and fun props. Each graduate can step up for a unique photo that reflects their personality. To make these memories last, consider setting up an online gallery where attendees can view and download their photos. Did you know that 96% of people keep their favorite photos on their phones? Offering a way for graduates to share these moments will ensure they cherish them for years to come! 3. Gamify the Ceremony Gaining everyone's attention can be challenging during ceremonies. That’s where gamification comes in. Incorporate trivia questions about the graduating class or fun challenges that involve the audience. For example, ask guests to guess which student has achieved certain milestones or knows the most school trivia. Engaging the crowd not only entertains but also strengthens connections among attendees—resulting in a memorable experience for everyone involved. 4. Host a Drive-In Graduation With the need for safety during recent celebrations, a drive-in graduation offers a creative solution. Graduates stay in their cars, making it a secure and enjoyable way for families to celebrate together. Imagine a spacious outdoor venue set up with a stage, sound system, and a large screen. Graduates can enjoy speeches and festivities while remaining comfortable in their vehicles. This format provides a unique way to celebrate, ensuring everyone stays connected from a distance. 5. Virtual Reality Experiences As technology advances, so can your graduation ceremony. Integrating virtual reality experiences into the event adds excitement and novelty. Imagine guests donning VR headsets to walk through a virtual version of their school or relive special memories. This tech-savvy approach can engage those unable to attend in person, making it an innovative way to connect with graduates and enhance their experience. 6. Offer Customizable Graduation Caps Graduates thrive on individual expression, and customizable caps are a fantastic opportunity for creativity. Set up a decoration station at the ceremony where students can use provided materials to embellish their caps. A uniquely decorated graduation cap showcasing personal creativity This hands-on activity transforms ordinary caps into personalized works of art, providing great photo opportunities. In fact, 75% of graduates say they want to show off their unique designs on social media after the ceremony. 7. Surprise Guest Appearances Having a surprise guest speaker can add excitement and inspiration to the ceremony. Whether inviting a respected teacher, a local community leader, or even a well-known alum, surprise guests can uplift and motivate graduates. Sharing a personal success story can deeply resonate with students as they navigate their next steps. Having someone they admire can create memorable moments that highlight the power of determination and hard work. 8. Celebrate with a Parade Transform the graduation ceremony into a lively parade! Graduates can march through the school or community, celebrating their achievements with family and friends. This public display of pride allows for genuine jubilation, complete with cheers and music. Engaging the community creates an atmosphere of celebration that honors the hard work of graduates while building priceless memories. 9. Themes That Resonate Choosing a distinctive theme can significantly elevate any graduation ceremony. Themes like "A Journey Through Time," which celebrates the school's history, or "Future Vision," focusing on what lies ahead, can captivate attendees. Integrate themed decorations, speeches, and performances to create a coherent and immersive experience. Engaging graduates and families through a unified narrative enhances the significance of this milestone. 10. One Mom's Story: Kimberly Witt Graduation holds special meaning for parents witnessing their children's growth. Kimberly Witt , a mother featured in Your Teen Magazine, shared her experience of a personal graduation celebration. Instead of a big party, she chose a small gathering, focusing on the significance of connections rather than extravagance. Her story emphasizes that the heartfelt intentions behind any graduation celebration bring more value than scale. Celebrating simply but meaningfully can create lasting memories for families. Wrapping Up the Celebration As graduation season approaches for the Class of 2025, it’s vital to explore creative and delightful ways to honor students' achievements. By adopting these ten imaginative hacks, parents and schools can foster an engaging and meaningful experience that leaves graduates feeling proud as they embark on their next adventure. Here’s to celebrating hard work, accomplishments, and the exciting journey ahead! Make it as big, loud, or small and simple as your student wants. It's their special day :)