Catching Up with Alumna Caroline Anderson
It’s such a delight to talk with former Star Academy students, like Caroline Anderson, and learn how they have grown into independent young adults. Caroline attended Star Academy from 6th-10th grades and is now working and living independently.
Caroline says, “I had a positive experience at my local school Brookside Elementary and participated in their resource program. Although they were understanding of my disabilities, they didn’t have as much support as I needed. Also, the classes were too big.”
“At Star the classes were smaller, and everyone was more welcoming. Every student had their own learning differences so we could relate to each other without being judged,” she explained. “My biggest challenges were reading and math, and the teachers were helpful in pushing me to succeed.”
Star’s Speech Language Pathologist Beth Gonzalez-Karcs recalls Caroline as being very special in her diplomacy and kindness, “She was the type of student that got along with everyone no matter what high school drama was cooking up.”
Wyatt Bessing, a Star MSLAT specialist, added, “I remember Caroline as a shining light and leader among the students. She would come into my sessions ready and excited to learn! She was always positive and well-respected by students and staff alike.”
In her sophomore year of high school, Caroline was dually enrolled at Star Academy and Sir Francis Drake (now Archie Williams), to smooth the transition to her local public high school. “When I went back to public school, I was less shy, more confident in myself and much more social,” she says.
After graduation in 2017, Caroline moved to Long Beach, where she participated in the College Internship Program (CIP) and then the Graduate Living Center (GLC). During this time, she earned a Teacher’s Aid certificate at Long Beach City College.
After 6 ½ years in Long Beach, Caroline recently returned to Marin and is now working, going to school, and living independently in an apartment with a roommate from high school. She works at the YMCA’s after-school care program at her old school, Brookside Elementary. “What I like about working with kids is watching their progress—both in what they’re learning and in their social interactions,” she explains. Her next goal is to earn an associate degree in early childhood education at Napa City College.
When not working or in school, Caroline likes to hang out with her friends. “I’m proud to have great friend-groups, both here and in Long Beach. I still stay in touch with them daily.”
Next month, Caroline is coming back to Star to talk to our high school Transitions class. Beth Gonzalez-Karcs explains, “Caroline understands that hearing from a former student helps our high schoolers imagine a future for themselves at a time when they feel both excited and scared at once. I can't think of anything more inspirational and generous than that!”
4470 Redwood Hwy
San Rafael, CA 94903
San Rafael, CA 94903
P. (415) 456-8727
