Student Spotlight: Bethany

Turning the Page on Her Past, Bethany Found Purpose and Possibility at DATX 

For many students, high school is a time of discovery. For Bethany, it was also a time of healing. 

Now a graduating senior at Digital Academy of Texas (DATX), Bethany’s story is one of quiet resilience, personal growth, and the power of a supportive learning environment. A founding member of DATX’s Student Lighthouse Team, she has spent the past three years helping build student life from the ground up—while also rebuilding her own foundation along the way. 

A Fresh Start in a Safer Space 

Bethany began her high school journey attending classes in person. But after moving in with her father during her freshman year—a time marked by instability and unsafe circumstances—her mental health began to decline. Panic attacks soon made traditional school impossible. That’s when her mother stepped in. 

“My mom knew she couldn’t teach me on her own, but she wanted something structured that could still give me a fresh start,” Bethany said. “She researched virtual schools and found DATX.” 

DATX offered exactly what Bethany needed: a safe place to learn, space to recover, and the flexibility to rediscover her motivation. “One of the things I liked most was being able to sleep more and just feel safer at home. That gave me a chance to focus again.” 

From Isolation to Involvement 

Though naturally introverted, Bethany was determined to get involved in her new school community. She volunteered to join the very first Student Lighthouse Team—a student-led leadership group similar to a student council—and has been an active member ever since. 

As the team’s Historian, Bethany helps document their meetings and ideas, which often center around organizing pep rallies, school-wide initiatives, and community service projects. One of her proudest contributions was organizing DATX’s first student-led service outing: a meet-up in a local park where students turned old t-shirts into tug toys for rescue dogs at Animal Hope. 

“I’ve always loved animals—I have eight barn cats at home—so it meant a lot to do something for them,” she said. Bethany also helped collect donations of treats and food to support the shelter’s mission. “It was amazing to see other DATX students drive in from across the area to help.” 

A Passion for Books—and a Plan for the Future 

Bethany’s love for animals is only matched by her love of reading. A self-proclaimed bookworm, she favors thrillers and mystery fiction and dreams of one day becoming a school librarian. 

This fall, she’ll begin her college journey at Weatherford College, where she plans to complete her basics before pursuing a degree in library science. 

“DATX gave me the time and space to recover and find my own path,” Bethany said. “Being part of the Student Lighthouse Team helped me build confidence, make friends, and feel like I was truly part of something.” 

A Mother’s Gratitude 

Her mom couldn’t be prouder. “She really grew up in a way I never expected,” she said. “As a parent, you never want your child to go through something hard—but Bethany did. And she came out stronger. DATX gave her the stability and safety that in-person school couldn’t. That was the difference. It gave her a chance to heal.” 

As she prepares to graduate, Bethany leaves behind a legacy of kindness, leadership, and quiet courage—and a reminder that, with the right support, students can thrive on their own terms.  

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