Three Springs senior Jacob Corrick now a leader, with a knack for carpentry

Students who’ve struggled in traditional classrooms often find their path to success in smaller alternative school settings.

That’s been true for Jacob Corrick.

“I used to have a lot of anger issues back in elementary school,” he said. “My parents actually had me tested for Asperger’s, but I didn’t have that. I had anxiety.”

His struggles continued in high school.

“It was too fast-paced for me. I wasn’t actually learning. I was just passing tests without retaining anything,” said Corrick.

Thankfully, he found a scholastic home at Three Springs High School.

“Jacob is not a traditional student. He sees things very black and white and the world as either fair or unfair. He didn’t always fit in in school,” said principal Catheleen Schlotter. “From Jacob’s perspective, Three Springs is the best thing that could have happened.”

Corrick explained.

“It’s smaller and slower-paced,” he said. “I can go at my own pace. I’m retaining because I’m not just getting talked at. It really works for me. Now, the lowest grade I have is a B-minus.”

Schlotter appreciates the attributes Corrick brings to the school.

“He’s a really nice young man and a genuine leader in our school,” she said. “He’s always volunteering to help.”

From supervising lunches to developing a video for the school board, the student who used to hate going to school is now a constant presence.

“He comes every day, even when he doesn’t have to,” said Schlotter, laughing.

His motivation is simple.

“I like seeing people I care about happy,” he said, adding he really appreciates the encouragement the teachers and staff at Three Springs have offered.

Corrick is also attending Newtech Skills Center, studying construction trades. It’s proved to be a great fit for him.

“Newtech is a wonderful program,” he said.

He’s discovered how much he enjoys working with his hands.

“Carpentry makes sense to me. If you can read the plans, it’s like doing a Lego set – it all fits together,” Corrick said.

He laughed.

“And I love Legos!”

His time at Newtech has allowed him to look to the future with confidence.

“I’ve got an internship this summer with the Carpenters Union,” Corrick said. “I’ve got a plan for my future. I’m going to work with my hands and earn my day’s pay.”

The kid who once had anger issues has come a long way.

“It’s great to see him thrive,” Schlotter said. “He’s such a gentle, kind individual.”

Corrick is quick to credit those who have helped him come into his own.

“I am where I am because of my parents, and my teachers and counselors giving me support through all of this,” he said. “I’m very thankful.”