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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

North Star allowed Calvin Berendes to plot his own course: Self-starter graduating ahead of schedule

Calvin Berendes is graduating with the Class of 2020 from Northstar GSL in the Mead School District, Mead, Wash. (COURTESY)

From a once-struggling student, to taking charge of his education and graduating early, Calvin Berendes exemplifies what grit and determination can accomplish.

Berendes had floundered during his freshman year at Mead High School.

“Calvin came to us at M.E.A.D. Alternative High School at the beginning of his sophomore year,” said teacher Teri Inman. “He was bright and motivated, but the atmosphere at Mead was too stressful for him, academically.”

He quickly found his feet at the alternative school.

“I loved how close the community was,” he said. “Instead of just a school, it was like a family.”

His independent nature made it a great fit for him.

“It was a nice light at the end of the tunnel,” said Berendes. “I felt like I had more freedom and I owned my own education.”

That freedom bolstered his confidence.

“I believed more in myself. I started to flourish,” he said. “My teachers called me a mentor.”

Then came the news that budget cuts would force the closure of the alternative school.

“It was very stressful,” Berendes said.

Despite his sadness, he showed up in July to help his teachers pack boxes and load pallets.

Inman said the staff appreciated his assistance.

“He’s such a good kid,” she said. “Kind, compassionate and generous with his time.”

Berendes had thrived academically and socially in M.E.A.D.’s independent atmosphere. He didn’t want lose the ground he’d gained, so he chose to complete his education at North Star School in its Guided Student Learning Program.

The program is designed specifically for students who are self-motivated and organized learners who are attending Running Start, Skill Center, are parenting, or have another life challenge that keeps them from participating in traditional school. Each student is completely responsible and accountable for managing their time and coursework; this mirrors the college atmosphere and prepares students to be responsible adults.

Inman knew it would be a good fit for this self-directed student.

“Calvin was so disappointed by the school closure,” she said. “But he’s hell-bent on being successful and having a great life.”

Students at North Star GSL meet for one hour a week, one-on-one, with their adviser. Together, they design each class based on the student’s learning style. Once this is determined, the student can work as quickly or as slowly as needed to complete the work.

Berendes chose to work quickly, and graduated in January.

“I surprised myself,” he said. “I thought I’d have to go an extra year instead of graduating a half a year early.”

He’s been accepted into the automotive program at Spokane Community College and will start in September.

Berendes laughed when asked what he plans to tell his future children about his high school years:

“I’ll tell them I survived a pandemic and graduated a half a year early!’

Inman isn’t at all surprised by how her student has flourished despite challenges.

“Calvin doesn’t do anything halfway. He does his very best at everything,” she said. “I’m glad he’s part of our community.”