By Emily Bergstrom, Executive Director
There is no “one size fits all story” for pregnant and parenting students, but they frequently have at least one thing in common: life didn’t go quite as planned. On this blog, I regularly share stories of real students who chose to attend a school program specially designed for pregnant and parenting teens.
Meet Louree! She graduated in 2020 from a high school for pregnant and parenting students.
Tell us about yourself.
I am a crazy outgoing mom. I like adventures and meeting new people, especially people like me. I like learning new things. I am a mom of a wild little boy. I was a young mom that got pregnant at 15 then had my little boy by the age 16. I am now 20 with a little boy who turns 4 in June.
What was the most important thing for you, attending a school just for young parents?
I overcame massive postpartum depression due to such an amazing school. I definitely wouldn’t be the strong women I am today without my mom and this school. It wasn’t the school district that was amazing, it was definitely the staff who made the difference. I am so excited that a few of those staff members are making this happen for future teen moms.
What else did you like about the school?
The school had amazing programs that helped me parent. There is no right way to be a parent. Everyone is different but the amazing things about this program was they gave you facts on ways to help when we are young and a little clueless. Yes, we are tired and up with our babies all night or pregnant and not getting much sleep. No problem. You show up and they will help.
I attended this school about 3 1/2 years I dropped out but going back helped me more then ever. They made it happen for me and I was a year late, but still graduated in 2020 because I had the support at this school! I have never cried so much. Having childcare and support from teachers and The Salvation Army made it possible.
What are you up to now?
I am so proud to say I graduated because now I am a full time mom going to CWI part time and going to Paul Mitchell cosmetology program full time. My son is in soccer, and swimming classes, and he goes to Head Start. I would not be able to be here if I didn’t learn everything I did from my school. I don’t have very much free time, but when I do, I like spending quality time with my little family: my boyfriend, my son, and our 2 dogs.