Chloe Davis is a standout member of the 2021 senior class: academic rockstar, soccer team co-captain, volleyball player, yearbook photographer, student council member, runner, summer camp counselor and, yes, robotics engineer. She also happens to have a learning difference, having been diagnosed with dyslexia in the third grade.
Drawn to GHS for its approach to working with students with learning differences, Chloe found a close-knit community where she quickly felt at home.
“In my different friend groups, it’s either common for someone to need extra help, or to support someone who needs it,” she said. “I’ve been able to surround myself with the right people who fully support me.”
Working with GHS’ Learning Center and Resource Specialists, Chloe has been able to access seemingly small accommodations that can have a big impact on student success. “I’ve never been afraid to ask for help if I need it, but Gateway has helped me figure out what resources are most helpful for me and the best ways for me to learn,” she said. For a student like Chloe, that might look like having a proctor who can read questions aloud on tests like the SAT and ACT. For other students, that might look like access to adapted texts, assistive technology, or the opportunity to work in smaller groups.
“There’s never any pressure -- the help is there if you need it, whether you have an IEP (individualized education plan) or not,” Chloe added.
Chloe dreams of a career that will allow her to have a positive impact on the environment, whether as a scientist, environmental engineer or environmental designer. As she starts to think seriously about college (top contenders: Berkeley, Davis, Humboldt and Irvine), she knows the skills she’s gained at GHS will benefit her long after high school.
“Ever since ninth grade Learning Skills class, we’ve been taught to manage our time, get super organized, and ask for help when you need it,” she said. “For me personally, I know I’m a much better communicator now and know where to look when I need help. That’s definitely going to help me in college.”