Nearly a decade after leaving high school to care for her child, 27-year-old Alexis Treviño returned to the classroom as a junior at The PossAble Dream Adult High School. She enrolled at the tuition-free school to complete her high school diploma and earn an industry-recognized certificate.
Treviño said the school’s supportive environment has shaped her experience. “The teachers here care so much,” she said. “They check in on your work and make sure you understand. I am not just another student.”
Each morning, Treviño arrives at the Pharr site around 7 am, often before staff arrive to open the doors. She said the early start gives her time to review material and catch up on assignments.
“Being early means having more opportunity to learn,” Treviño said. “When I am here, I get to study, finish homework and work toward recovering credits. I have always thought, if you want to do something, do it early in the morning.”
Treviño has recovered several credits since enrolling and continues to work toward graduation. “I am doing well in my classes,” she said. “This is the best environment for me.”
Returning to school came with uncertainty, she said, but the school’s staff helped ease the transition.
“Before coming here, I was very scared. I did not know what to expect,” Treviño said. “Now, I know there is nothing to be afraid of. I receive so much support. The staff listens and cares.”
She said feeling valued as a learner has influenced her future plans. Treviño hopes to continue her education after graduating.
“I want to support people’s mental health by studying counseling,” she said.
Transformed by her new learning experience, Treviño wrote a poem about her experience at The PossAble Dream. She said the poem came from her love for the school.
The PossAble Dream by Alexis Treviño
A Place where hope begins anew, Where anyone can learn and past Worries are few,
The PossAble Dream stand proud and tall,
A new beginning, a second chance, and a place for all.
The doors are open so just come on Inside,
The teachers and staff are welcoming With hearts open wide
Each lesson shines, each voice is heard, Each dream takes flight with every Word.
An education is welcome for ages 18-50 So no need to fear,
Your goals are welcome, your heart Sincere.
Mistakes of the past no longer define, The PossAble Dream lets your future Shine.
So step inside, let courage grow
The seeds you plant will surely Show.
With books and laughter, light will gleam,
At The PossAble Dream Adult High School, you live your dream.
“I was reflecting on my conversations with my success coach, Melissa, and I thought, ‘I love it here,’” Treviño said. “I love the students, the staff and if someone read it, maybe it would inspire them.”
Treviño shared the poem with staff. She said it expresses what the school environment feels like to her and many of her classmates.
“It’s the little things that make a big difference at The PossAble Dream,” she said. “We have shoulders to lean on, people to listen. We feel valued, recognized and rewarded.”