Former Student Returns to Inspire Connect Academy High School Students

Alvaro Mendez, a former student of Connect Academy High School administrator Dr. Jan Donovan and Schavonne Roberts, speaks with current students about perseverance, personal responsibility, and the impact of educators who believe in their success.

Recently, Connect Academy High School had the privilege of welcoming a special guest, Alvaro Mendez, a former student of Site Administrators Dr. Jan Donovan and Schavonne Roberts. His visit was more than a reunion; it was a powerful reminder of how belief, mentorship, and perseverance can change the trajectory of a life.

Alvaro spoke candidly with students about the challenges he faced during his school years. He shared that he struggled academically and personally, often surrounded by peers who were making poor choices. At one point, he admitted, his future could have looked very different.

“I would be in jail with all my friends,” he told students, “if it hadn’t been for the staff who believed in me and fought for me.”

That belief, the kind educators at Connect Academy High School demonstrate every day, made the difference.

Choosing Your Own Path
One of the strongest messages Alvaro delivered was about independence and accountability. He encouraged students not to follow the crowd, but to make decisions that align with their long-term goals.
He emphasized the importance of graduating from high school, explaining that earning a GED later in life can be costly and far more difficult than completing school now. His message was clear: take advantage of the opportunity in front of you.

Alvaro also spoke honestly about setbacks.

“It’s okay to feel sorry for yourself for a short time,” he shared. “But then you have to get over it and start working on changing your life and getting back on your feet.”

His words resonated deeply, especially coming from someone who once sat in a similar classroom seat.

From Struggle to Skilled Professional
Today, Alvaro works as a technician in coding and cutting, a role that requires precision, technical skill, and, as he pointed out with a smile, math he never thought he would use.

He also shared that adulthood brings new responsibilities, including learning how taxes work, another real-world lesson that students don’t always anticipate while in high school.

His journey reflects an important truth: the lessons learned in school matter more than students may realize in the moment.

The Power of Belief
For Dr. Donovan and Ms. Roberts, the visit was especially meaningful. Seeing a former student return not only successful, but eager to give back, reinforces the mission of Connect Academy High School.

Every day, our staff invest in students not just academically, but relationally, advocating for them, believing in them, and helping them see possibilities beyond their current circumstances.

Alvaro’s story is proof that those efforts make a lasting impact. We are grateful he chose to return and share his experience, and we look forward to watching our current students write their own success stories.

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Connect Academy High School: Grades 9–12
105 W. Army Trail Blvd., Addison, IL 60101

Jan Donovan, Ph.D., Connect Academy High School Site Administrator

This high school program emphasizes academic achievement, emotional regulation, and real-world readiness, including vocational training and job placement support. Ideal for students preparing for life after school.
Site Administrator: Jan Donovan, Ph.D.
[email protected]
630‑822‑8085 (Ext. 3)

Learn about Connect Academy High School