Monica enrolled in Commonwealth High School at age 15. As a pregnant student, she had struggled to find support in a traditional high school setting and hoped to find an environment that would allow her to continue working toward graduation while preparing for a major change in her life. Commonwealth’s shorter class sessions, flexible schedule, and self-paced structure gave her that opportunity.

“The smaller, more supportive environment helped me stay focused on my education,” she shared. “I also received the individualized attention I needed from the best teacher, Mr. Garcia, who kept me motivated and on track toward my future.”

Becoming a parent introduced a fresh set of challenges. After her daughter was born, Commonwealth allowed Monica to temporarily take classes online. “They understood my situation and supported me during one of the biggest transitions in my life,” she shared.

When she returned to the classroom, getting to school became another obstacle. “Transportation was one of my biggest challenges as a teen parent,” Monica recalled. She eventually learned to drive and purchased a car so that she could attend school consistently. On days when she could arrange childcare, she attended both morning and afternoon sessions. The self-paced curriculum allowed her to continue making progress toward graduation while balancing the responsibilities of caring for her daughter.

“I never felt mom guilt from being away from my daughter for so long because the shorter school days fit my needs as a new mom,” she said.

Beyond the classroom, Monica credits Commonwealth’s Family Support Services team with playing an important role in her success. The team connected her with the Alli and Aiden Foundation, which provided baby clothes, diapers, shoes and other necessities. One item still stands out to her: her daughter’s car seat. “I didn’t have to worry about spending so much money on it, which allowed me to focus on school instead of financial stress,” Monica said.

Monica graduated from Commonwealth in 2023 at age sixteen. After graduation, she said her greatest challenge “was staying focused on my goals despite the doubts and stereotypes I faced as a teen mom.”

Monica received an Alli and Aiden Foundation Scholarship that helped her attend Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute. Earning her esthetician license, she now works at Clean Your Dirty Face where she provides professional skincare services. She is also enrolled in college studying marketing in the hope of fulfilling her entrepreneurial aspirations. “In five years, I see myself opening my first salon and becoming a successful entrepreneur,” she said. For Monica, owning a business represents more than a career goal. She wants financial independence and the ability to create a schedule that gives her time with her daughter while continuing to work in a field she enjoys.

“Many people questioned whether I would succeed, but I was determined to prove them wrong…Commonwealth gave me the flexibility, resources, and encouragement I needed to succeed as both a student and a young mother.”

Commonwealth remains part of her support system. Staff helped her prepare a resume, wrote recommendation letters during the school application process and continue to assist when she needs records or guidance.

Her advice to current Commonwealth students reflects her experience balancing school, parenthood and the expectations of people who doubted what she could accomplish. “You are the one who has the power to shape your future,” Monica said. “If you work hard, stay consistent, and never give up on your goals, you will eventually get where you want to be.”