Elvina McQuabbie

As a parent, I've witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of mainstream high school on my son's personal growth. Despite his efforts to seek help and support for help with understanding classwork as well as addressing peer issues, the instructors and principals consistently dismissed him, leaving him feeling uncomfortable and helpless.

It was hard to see his young mind trying to understand, learn and grow, only to be met with indifference and neglect from the very institution meant to nurture his development.

Mainstream high school failed to recognize his individual needs and failed to provide the necessary support system, leaving him feeling isolated and discouraged. As a result, my son's learning and confidence suffered, and his potential remained largely untapped.

My son was personally blamed and unheard when trying to explain specific situations resulting in only suspension, he believed that if the educators didn’t care then why should he.

I was becoming stressed, sad and anxious for my son’s future, this was beginning to put a great strain on all parts of our lives.

Transitioning from a mainstream school to InnovOak has been a transformative experience for my son. Not only has my son thrived academically, but the supportive environment and personalized approach to learning has also had a profound effect on his overall well-being.

At home, I’ve noticed a positive change in his attitude towards learning and communicating. He now takes initiative in completing common tasks with patience, confidence, and enthusiasm. Using a mature way of thinking and problem-solving skills he has developed at school to challenges outside of the classroom.

Moreover, InnovOak has instilled in him a sense of responsibility and independence that has positively influenced his behavior and relationships at home. He takes pride in his accomplishments and demonstrates a greater sense of empathy and understanding towards others.

As a single working mother, I found it extremely stressful to ensure my teenage son was walking to school on time, attending his classes, and doing the work without peer distractions. All of this having led to poor attendance, failed classes, and even worse, legal troubles.

While still in mainstream school his grades and attendance were dropping quickly, he began to fall into trouble inside and outside of school.

This affected his grades, his attitude and my time lost at work.

Until I discovered InnovOak School, I had to get help quickly to get him on the right track. The holistic approach to education at InnovOak School has not only equipped him with the academic foundation he needs to succeed but has also nurtured important life skills that will serve him well in the future.

As a single working parent, I couldn’t be more grateful for the positive impact InnovOak School has had on my family. Their unwavering dedication to fostering both academic excellence and personal growth has truly made a difference in our lives, both inside and outside of school.

I will never send my son to another school, and I would only recommend InnovOak to any other parent.

Thank you so much to all the Staff at InnovOak for all that you do and all that you’ve done!