Before Madison saw herself as a leader, others did. Through the mentorship, encouragement, and real-world experiences that define 3DE’s four-year high school journey, her sophomore year became a turning point in building the confidence and sense of purpose that were already within her.
Last year when Madison was a sophomore, her teacher recommended her for the 3DE Ambassadors’ Program. Madison had been spending more time in the hallways than in class, but her teacher recognized something in her that quickly became evident to the rest of the 3DE team.
As a 3DE ambassador, Madison was thoughtful, kind, and patient with volunteers. She made them feel welcome at her school and ensured other ambassadors did the same. She made connections and built relationships.
Yet one challenge remained: Madison was still skipping class often.
Justin Smith, JAKC’s 3DE School Director, first met Madison as a freshman. Now when he saw Madison in the hallways instead of class, he challenged her on her old behaviors. He told her she couldn’t best represent her peers if she wasn’t in class. That feedback was tough for Madison to receive, but it was clear she took it seriously because soon Justin noticed she was spending far less time in the hallways.
Madison wasn’t being defiant. She felt bored and she didn’t see the value of sitting in a room once her work was finished. More importantly, she hadn’t yet recognized the value she could bring to the room as a leader.
Today, Madison is a junior. She is still taking on new responsibilities and recently helped lead and encourage a group of 75 freshmen on a 3DE field trip.
“It’s been a gift to be able to watch Madison discover that she’s a patient teacher, spirited coach, and loves taking on responsibility—even when it scares her,” Justin said. “I am so proud of her journey.”
Through 3DE, students who may have once questioned their place in the classroom begin to see themselves differently. They discover that their ideas matter, their voices have value, and their potential is far greater than they imagined. By connecting academic learning to real world challenges and career opportunities, 3DE helps students build confidence, develop leadership skills, and envision a future filled with possibility. The transformation is not just in how they learn, but in how they see themselves. And as more students begin to recognize what they are capable of achieving, we are reminded that the future of our community may already be sitting in our classrooms, simply waiting for the opportunity to shine.