Finding Confidence Through Language, Creativity, and Connection

For Brenda Hernandez, Class of 2029, learning during the 2024–2025 school year was shaped by transition, courage, and steady growth. As a new student at Simons Middle School, Brenda entered a learning environment where she was adapting to a new school, a new community, and a new language. Her portfolio shows how she built confidence through communication, creativity, and connection with others.

Brenda’s work reflects Vibrant Learning in action. Her artifacts make learning visible through reflection, expression, and persistence. Each piece shows how she navigated challenges while developing skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Communication as a Pathway to Belonging

One of the strongest themes across Brenda’s portfolio is her growth in communication. When she arrived at Simons Middle School, she did not speak English. Communicating with teachers and classmates felt overwhelming. In her reflection, Brenda shares that she felt afraid and embarrassed to speak with others because of the language barrier.

Over time, that fear began to ease. Brenda describes how teachers and classmates supported her learning, especially through teamwork and patience. She learned to communicate using a combination of spoken English, sign language, and translation tools on her computer and phone. Listening closely to others and practicing at home helped her gain confidence.

In Mrs. Thayer’s class, Brenda worked frequently in teams. These group settings gave her more opportunities to speak, listen, and learn alongside her peers. She writes about classmates who helped her understand instructions and content, while also learning some Spanish themselves. This shared effort created a sense of trust and belonging.

Creativity as Personal Expression

Brenda’s portfolio also highlights creativity as an important outlet for self-expression. Her personal website introduces who she is, what she enjoys, and how she spends her time. Through photos, drawings, and descriptions, Brenda shares her interests in music, art, and creative projects.

One art artifact features a detailed drawing that combines favorite characters, colors, and symbols. Brenda explains that she included elements such as clouds, stars, and characters she enjoys watching on television. She also added a soccer ball to represent her love for the sport. Her reflection shows pride in the artwork and joy in sharing something personal.

These creative pieces allowed Brenda to communicate ideas and emotions that did not rely only on words. Art became another way for her to show her identity, interests, and growth.

Learning Through Teamwork and Support

Throughout her reflections, Brenda emphasizes how teamwork helped her learn. She describes group projects where classmates worked together to decide on tools, divide tasks, and present information. One example includes a project about Mexican traditions, where the group used Canva to ensure everyone could contribute.

Brenda reflects on asking her classmates which parts they wanted to work on and taking turns during presentations. These experiences strengthened her confidence and communication skills. They also helped her feel more comfortable collaborating with others.

Her service reflections further show empathy and care for others. She writes about activities that brought happiness to older adults while on a service trip to a nursing home, including making flowers and singing songs. Brenda notes the importance of patience and understanding feelings, especially for people who may feel lonely.

Growth Through Reflection

Brenda’s portfolio includes thoughtful reflections on growth and achievement. She writes about learning English, improving teamwork, and understanding new subjects such as math, science, and social studies. She expresses pride in how much she learned in a short amount of time.

Her reflections show honesty about areas she wants to improve, including teamwork and communication. This awareness reflects a growth mindset and willingness to continue learning.

A Story of Vibrant Learning

Brenda’s portfolio aligns with Fleming County’s shift from compliance to community-centered accountability. Her learning is visible through stories, artifacts, and reflection rather than scores alone. Each artifact shows progress, effort, and resilience.

Her journey reflects the Vibrant Learning Arch by highlighting communication as a durable skill that supports academic success, personal confidence, and readiness for life. Brenda’s story reminds us that learning is shaped by connection, support, and opportunity.

As a member of the Class of 2029, Brenda continues building skills that will guide her forward. Her portfolio stands as a meaningful example of how students grow when they are supported, encouraged, and trusted to share their story.