Hannah Kate Gutierrez, an NTC SmartClass alumna, kindly accepted an interview and shared valuable insights into her personal experience as a homeschooler. Her journey with SmartClass began in Grade 9 in 2022 and continued through Grade 10, ending in 2024—completing two years in SmartClass.

She chose SmartClass for its flexible learning environment and adaptable schedule, which allowed her to manage her time effectively while studying in the comfort of her home. Through this setup, she discovered how to be academically productive and efficient, all while maintaining a healthy balance between learning and personal life.

Hannah described her SmartClass experience as both exciting and enriching. She especially enjoyed the project-based learning approach, which sharpened her problem-solving and analytical skills. This method not only made studying more engaging but also encouraged her to take ownership of her learning. She learned how to study independently while enjoying the process, developing both responsibility and initiative.

One of the standout aspects of SmartClass, according to Hannah, was the opportunity to collaborate and communicate effectively with others. Group-based activities for the Integrated Performance-Based Assessments taught her how to coordinate with peers, a skill she believes is essential beyond academics. She also emphasized the vital role of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in her academic success. Through Live Consultations (LCs), she was able to have one-on-one sessions with mentors, which gave her the guidance and support she needed—especially in subjects she found quite challenging.

Before joining SmartClass, Hannah struggled with managing her time. However, the demands of the homeschool setup put her time management skills to the test. Over time, she developed practical strategies like time-blocking and daily scheduling, which she continues to apply now as a senior high school student.

The program's Integrated Project-Based Assessments (IPBAs) also helped her explore different academic interests and ultimately guided her in choosing the right strand for Senior High School (SHS). These assessments were intentionally designed to align with the core competencies of each SHS strand, helping her discover her strengths and preferences in a meaningful way.

Hannah’s journey in SmartClass showed the value of a homeschool approach that promotes independence, responsibility, and real-world readiness. Her journey serves as an inspiration to other learners about the lasting impact of personalized education.

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