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It has been a privilege to have Zac in the EHS Big Picture program the last few years. I have seen so much personal growth, and he’s had many opportunities that he would not have had in “regular” school. Last month, I was able to hear Zac interview for a job through zoom, and I was impressed by his confidence, thoughtful answers, and overall presentation; this program contributed to all of that. The teachers and staff are invested in the students and genuinely care about their success. Big Picture provided a positive alternative learning experience and I highly recommend this program to any student who feels that the typical school setting does not work best for them. 

Jenny Eslinger

Ellensburg Big Picture has been an incredible option for students who need a different path to success.

The program gives students the opportunity to learn through hands on projects, real world experiences, internships, and personalized learning plans that connect education to their interests.

What impressed our family most was how the school helps students discover their strengths and build confidence. It is an excellent fit for students who learn by doing, who may be more career focused than college focused, who need flexibility to balance work or family responsibilities, or who have struggled to see themselves succeeding in a traditional school environment.

Rather than simply focusing on grades and seat time. Big Picture focuses on mastery, growth, and real world readiness. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their education, develop practical skills, and demonstrate what they have learned in meaningful ways.

For many students, this program is more than just another school option. It is a place where they feel seen and supported. Helping more students capable of reaching graduation when they may not have believed that was possible before.

Many students struggle to see the purpose of school. Through this program my daughter and her peers gained confidence. They found learning that connected to their interests and began to see a future they were excited about. Big Picture students feel supported, capable, and valued for their unique strengths.

If your child is looking for a more personalized, hands on, career connected learning experience. I would strongly encourage you to explore Ellensburg Big Picture. It has been a valuable and life changing opportunity for our family. I believe it fills an important gap for students who deserve more than a one size fits all approach to education.

Amber Baker 

As parents, enrolling Grayson at Big Picture was the best educational decision we made during his high school years.

Prior to Big Picture, Grayson struggled to see the point of school, was not engaged, and lacked confidence in his abilities. While he was smart enough, traditional high school was simply not bringing out the best in him.

The difference we saw during his time at Big Picture was huge. The smaller environment, relationships with staff, and project-based method helped him become more engaged, more confident, and much more willing to advocate for himself. For the first time, he truly felt known and cared about as an individual rather than just another student.

Most importantly, Big Picture helped him with his confidence. We watched him develop the confidence to communicate his ideas, take ownership of his learning, and speak about his work at a level that we had not seen before.

Grayson has repeatedly told us that this was his favorite year of high school. He feels that he grew tremendously, learned a lot, and was given opportunities that he would not have experienced in a traditional setting.

We are incredibly grateful to the staff at Big Picture for the care, encouragement, and support they provided. The impact they have had on Grayson will extend far beyond high school, and we will always be thankful that we found this program.

If you have a student who is capable but not engaged, or who would benefit from stronger relationships, increased confidence, and more ownership of their learning, I would encourage you to take a serious look at Big Picture. It made a tremendous difference for our family.

Ryan and Jody Backlund