Choosing More: Angelia’s Journey Through Educational Opportunity

Essay Contest winner, Angelia Schmerr with Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy school leadership.

At School Choice Ohio, we continue to be inspired by the stories students share about how their education has shaped who they are becoming. Through our 2026 SCO Essay Scholarship Contest, students from across Ohio reflected on what their education means to them as they prepare to take their next steps beyond high school.

Angelia Schmerr was selected as one of three top essay winners, and her perspective offers a powerful look at how access to educational choice can challenge students to think bigger, push further, and realize their full potential.

Angelia’s Essay: What My Education Means to Me

The trajectory of a student’s life is often determined by the questions they are encouraged to ask. For some, that question may be, “What do I need to do to pass?” But for students who benefit from school choice, the question becomes something far more powerful: “How much more am I capable of?”

A Mindset Shift That Changes Everything

“For those fortunate enough to benefit from school choice, the question is… ‘How much more am I capable of?’”

This shift in perspective shaped my entire educational experience. My readiness for the rigor of college was not built on simply meeting requirements, but on being in an environment that refused to let me settle for the bare minimum.

Beyond the Minimum: Unlocking Potential

A defining moment came when I realized how different my education had been compared to others. While some systems set expectations at “just enough,” my experience pushed me beyond that.

“If I had been in their shoes, I likely would have… done exactly what was required of me and nothing more.”

School choice ensured that I was never confined by minimum expectations. Instead, I was encouraged to explore, question, and grow—developing curiosity rather than complacency.

An Education Without a Ceiling

“In my private school, the ceiling does not exist.”

At my school, “Choose More” is not just a slogan—it is a daily expectation. Teachers are empowered to go beyond rigid standards, creating a learning environment filled with depth, flexibility, and meaningful discussion.

Rather than being told what to think, I was taught how to think—learning to navigate complex ideas and engage with different perspectives, a skill that will serve me well in higher education and beyond.

Pushed by Those Who See Your Potential

One of the most impactful aspects of my education was having teachers who truly knew me and challenged me accordingly.

“This is an A- paper… but this is a C+ effort from you because I know what you are capable of.”

That moment taught me that success is not about meeting expectations—it is about exceeding them. It instilled in me the discipline to push myself, even when I was already doing well.

The Lasting Impact of School Choice

“School choice provided the ladder… and my school encouraged me to climb it.”

Because of school choice, I am not stepping into the future with limits—I am stepping forward with confidence, curiosity, and the belief that I can continue to grow.

I am choosing more: more rigor, more responsibility, and more opportunity to make an impact.

Angelia’s story is a powerful reminder that educational choice is about more than access—it is about unlocking potential. When students are placed in environments that challenge them, support them, and push them beyond what is required, they begin to see possibilities that extend far beyond the classroom.

Her experience reflects what is possible when students are given the opportunity to not just meet expectations—but to exceed them, shaping a future defined by purpose, growth, and limitless potential.