Leading with Purpose: How One ISWA Junior Is Turning Service into a Future of Flight 

At Insight School of Washington (ISWA), 11^th-grader Ava, is redefining what leadership looks like in a virtual school setting. As President of her school’s National Honor Society (NHS) chapter, she is not only excelling academically, but also actively shaping a culture of support, mentorship, and service among her peers, all while preparing for a future in the military. 

From Student to Mentor 

For Ava, leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about showing up for others. What began as a simple classroom moment quickly turned into something much bigger. After a teacher asked her to explain a lesson in “teenage terms,” Ava discovered a passion for helping others learn. 

“I found it exciting and rewarding to see that I could help others understand something when I had once been the person needing tutoring,” Ava shared. 

That moment sparked an ongoing role tutoring classmates during study hall, an experience she now considers the most meaningful part of her NHS journey. Through this work, Ava has come full circle: from needing support to becoming someone others rely on. 

Leadership in a Virtual Environment 

As NHS President, Ava has embraced opportunities that go far beyond building a résumé. She’s strengthened her skills in communication, teamwork, and decision-making, which are all essential for her future goals. 

Her experience also highlights something unique about virtual learning: the ability to make an impact both locally and nationally. Through her involvement in NHS, Ava has taken part in a wide range of meaningful service opportunities. She has supported classmates through tutoring, helping peers better understand challenging material, while also contributing to national initiatives such as proofreading digital texts for Project Gutenberg. In addition, she has engaged in community-focused volunteer work, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact both locally and beyond. 

“NHS has given me the chance to grow in ways I didn’t expect—not just academically, but as a leader and teammate,” Ava reflected. 

Balancing Passion and Purpose 

Outside of her work with NHS, Ava leads a well-rounded and active life that reflects both her creativity and discipline. She is deeply engaged in Art Club, where she enjoys working with pencil and charcoal to bring her ideas to life through creative drawings. At the same time, she challenges herself physically through Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai, building resilience, focus, and confidence. She also participates in a bowling league, adding a fun and social outlet that allows her to connect with others in a different setting. 

Ava’s curiosity extends into the classroom, where her academic interests are just as diverse. She has a strong passion for English, particularly essay writing, which allows her to express her thoughts and creativity. History captures her interest by helping her better understand the world and the events that have shaped it. Even math, she says, feels like solving a puzzle. An approach that reflects her problem-solving mindset and determination to work through challenges. 

At home, Ava enjoys spending time with her two dogs and values the close-knit environment of her family. She draws significant inspiration from her strong military background—her father recently retired from the Navy, her brother serves in the Air Force, and several relatives have dedicated their lives to service. This foundation has played an important role in shaping her goals, values, and commitment to a future path rooted in leadership and service. 

Eyes on the Future 

Looking ahead, Ava is excited to take the next step by participating in Running Start during her senior year, giving her the opportunity to earn college credit while finishing high school. Beyond that, her goal is clear: to attend the United States Air Force Academy and pursue a career as a pilot. For Ava, it’s not just about reaching a destination but about continuing a path of purpose, growth, and service. 

In a virtual environment where independence and initiative matter, students like Ava are proving that connection, leadership, and purpose can take flight no matter where learning happens. Her journey is a reminder that leadership isn’t defined by where you learn, but by how you show up. Through her work with NHS, she has gained more than accomplishments. She’s built confidence, found her voice, and made a meaningful impact on those around her.  

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