Class of 2022 senior, Kai McCutcheon had plans to become a welder but like many high schoolers his age, he changed course. With guidance from a strong network of teachers and staff members, Kai has identified a new passion: working with kids. Once he graduates this spring, he will dive into the workforce to do just that. 

“I want to help kids who may need to further develop their social skills. I want to support kids that need support,” he explained.

To start gaining some experience with children, Kai is planning to be a lifeguard at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, PA this summer close to his hometown of Palmyra. Before beginning, he plans to get CPR certified and believes it will also benefit him in his plans to work with kids. 

“Overall, being at PA Distance was a great experience that I would do all over again if I had a choice,” he said. “I’m able to constantly be in touch with my teachers. I’m going to miss them most of all.” 

“I had hands-on learning experiences here, compared to the last online school I attended,” he added. “I think it’s important that students have a say in how they want to learn. We know what works best for us.”

Kai has taken a variety of elective classes during his time at PA Distance, including History of the Holocaust with Mr. Mysels, Electronic Music with Mr. Hart, and Mythology with Ms. Smialek. 

“They were great classes,” Kai said. “I’ve always been drawn to music and songwriting, too. And I was super into Greek and Egyptian mythology in my personal life and I was so excited to learn more about it in school, too.”

Kai is excited to graduate but says he is going to miss the connections he has made with teachers and staff at PA Distance

“My counselor, Mrs. Mihoreck, has been supportive,” he explained. “And I love the relationships that I have with my teachers. They check in on me and we talk about my life, not just about school. They are always willing to go out of their way to help.”

“I have enjoyed getting to know Kai since he started in middle school. He always has a smile and something fun to add to the class,” School Counselor, Mrs. Mihoerck, noted. 

“Now, I'm looking forward to growing and getting out there to make my own money and starting my career,” he said.