Meet LPS Focus Program Senior: Ainsley, Bay High

May 15, 2025

The mission of Lincoln Public Schools is to prepare ALL students for successful careers, lifelong learning and civic engagement.

High school graduation is a culmination of our scholars' and educators' hard work toward this significant milestone. 

The LPS Focus Programs’ core values of exploration, education, engagement and empowerment are beliefs rooted in the overall LPS mission and the school district’s commitment to high school graduation. 

Read how senior Ainsley used the Bay High Focus Program to Launch at LPS in this Q&A. 

Name: Ainsley

Grade: 12

Home High School: Southwest 

Focus Program: Bay High

 

Why did you choose the Bay High Focus Program?

I was interested in learning more about content creation. At my home high school, I became interested in video production, but everything available to me was limited. When I learned about Bay High, I knew I would be able to expand upon my knowledge and have more opportunities. 

How did the Bay High Focus Program change your high school experience?

I was finally surrounded by people who were as passionate as I was. The Bay helped me finally find a place where I felt like I could truly be myself and belong. 

What is the greatest lesson you learned from the Bay High Focus Program? Why?

The greatest lesson I learned is that there are different ways to learn that are more effective for some people. At Bay High, the classes flow naturally with a lot of hands-on activities to keep every student engaged. 

How did the Bay High Focus Program help you reach your graduation goals?

I had planned to apply to art schools before graduation, which requires a portfolio of your best works. I used over half the videos I created in Video Production in my college portfolio, which ultimately got me into the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). 

What are your post-graduation plans?

I plan to go to the Savannah College of Art and Design, majoring in film and television. 

How did the Bay High Focus Program help prepare you for those post-graduation plans? 

In the Video Production and Literature Through Film classes specifically, I learned many crucial techniques necessary to create a great short film. I hope to use these techniques in college to give my short films an edge.

How did the Bay High Focus Program help prepare you for the future?

As an up-and-coming creative, finding a way to “sell” myself and something I'm passionate about (photography and film) is incredibly difficult. The Bay has given me the tools to become an entrepreneur and sell myself, as well as my art, to others.

What would your advice be to younger students considering joining your focus program? Why?

If you are interested in any kind of art and want to learn how to follow your passions in the future, do it. Bay High has opportunities no other focus program has, with a group of teachers who truly want to see you succeed.

What are you most thankful for about this experience? Why?

I found a place where I truly belong and am able to thrive. My high school experience wouldn't be the same without The Bay's involvement.

Brent, Tina and Ethan are some of the best teachers I've ever had. They cultivate a warm, inviting environment that you truly couldn't find anywhere else. 

Congratulations, Ainsley! We wish you the best in your future endeavors. We are thankful our educators could help you Launch at LPS!

 

Choose your passion. Choose your community. Choose your future with LPS Focus Programs. 

Learn more about the Bay High Focus Program by visiting its website at https://bayhigh.lps.org/ or stop by our website home.lps.org/focus to get more information about all our focus programs.

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