Graduate Spotlight: Rising Artist Nurtures His Vision

Darrin Patchell has had a lifelong love affair with art. Since he was in second grade, his family and teachers have been impressed with his artistic skills and tenacious work ethic. But while Darrin found his passion for art early in life, finding a school that fit him wasn’t as easy.

“Sometimes I had great teachers who took the time to get to know me,” Darrin said. “Other times I felt like they gave up on me or like I was a burden.”

Not satisfied with traditional schools, Darrin and his family went looking for a school that would support his interests and offer a personalized education plan. His search brought him to Visions In Education, where he found a safe, supportive environment to learn in.

“Visions has been so much better. Everyone treats me like a person and I feel valued.”

With the help of Visions’ Resource Center, Darrin’s family was able to choose and order curriculum that supported Darrin’s growth as a student. Additionally, Darrin was able to enroll in enrichment activities that let him focus on his love of art and discover a new appreciation for playing the guitar. Most importantly, Darrin found the support of a credentialed teacher that supported his goals.

“My teacher [Jennifer Kerr] always has something positive to say about my art and my skills in guitar,” said Darrin. “She is always proud of me and makes me look forward to presenting my work to her.”

What’s Next?

Now a proud graduate of the Class of 2019, Darrin is excited to move on to junior college while taking more advanced art classes. He’s looking forward to publishing his first book and hopes to someday put his skills to work as an illustrator. When asked what he would say to someone who isn’t sure if home school was a good option for them, he had this to say:

“If you are struggling or aren’t happy because you feel lost or bullied in public school,” Darrin said. “And if you are willing to do the work to be successful, then you should definitely give homeschooling a try.”