Switch to alternative high school made all the difference

The first instrument Sydney Casch learned to play was the piano. She learned in the seventh grade and it sparked a passion for music that would carry her through difficult times in school.

She attended Davenport High School until her junior year. She excelled in band and enjoyed playing sports, but she had fallen behind in her classes. On top of feeling overwhelmed by her studies, Casch also said that she was in a bad crowd.

However, she was not one to be deterred from a bright future and she decided to make a change.

She transferred to Medical Lake Alternative High School and began commuting for her education.

“Ever since she started in our program, the main thing is that she always came in with a positive attitude, wanting to get things done, be a part of the school and move forward with her education,” said Keith Dunlop, Casch’s teacher at the alternative school.

He added that for students who may be struggling in school, “as long as you got a goal and something you’re reaching for then you’re going to be just fine.”

Casch had fallen behind in school, but she was determined to remedy that with hard work and she had a goal in mind. She said that at the alternative school she could ask questions and feel acknowledged. Consequently, Casch got her grades up and continued to be involved in music and sports. She also became involved in community service.

Casch has added many more musical instruments to her repertoire since the seventh grade, including the bass, ukulele and harmonica. Her favorite to play is the acoustic guitar and she writes chords for the instrument.

Although she’s considering teaching history – thanks to inspiration from Dunlop – she also hopes to combine her love of music and service to others in a career as a music therapist. Her plan is stay local with classes at Spokane Falls Community College and Eastern Washington University.

For success in school, Casch has this advice: Respect teachers and others, pay attention in class, and surround yourself with fellow students who are concerned with education.

“Try to make friends and be sociable, that way you have friends who can help you out,” she said.

Casch recognized when she wasn’t reaching her full potential and she took action. She hopes to use her passion for music to help others do the same.