A little about myself:
My name is Karre Stokes and I am the Director of School Counseling at Independence Nontraditional School. I am a proud wife, mother of two, and grandmother of a little girl who brings so much joy to our life. I knew from a young age I wanted to work with teenagers so after high school I attended Old Dominion University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in human services counseling, from there I earned a master's degree in education at Virginia Tech. This will be my 28th year of service in nontraditional education serving as a counselor, and more recently director of school counseling.
I began my alternative education career in Fairfax County and transferred to Prince William County Public Schools in 2004 when the first non-traditional high school opened in PWCS, New Directions. In 2018. Independence Non-traditional School was opened and merged three school programs under one roof. I am proud to live in a county that recognizes that all students take different paths to launch a thriving future.
I look forward to another amazing school year and watching another pack of wolves walk the stage in June!
Vision Statement For Our Department:
All students at Independence Nontraditional High School can overcome their challenges and have the capacity to earn a high school diploma, pursue post-secondary education, thrive emotionally, obtain financial security, and thrive in our global society.
Mission Statement For Our Department:
Independence Nontraditional School (INS) is here to provide alternative education opportunities. Each student possesses unique worth and positive attributes to contribute to our global society. At INS we believe that our students learn in different ways and at different rates and deserve an alternative to the traditional comprehensive school model. INS's pedagogy allows student in a nontraditional way to acquire and develop knowledge and skills in academic content, responsible behavior, and respect for self and others there by leading to the development of productive adults, responsible citizens, and lifelong learners.
Our Mission Includes:
- Improve student academic achievement
- Provide for social and emotional growth
- Promote perseverance and productivity
- Explore future educational, career and technical interests
- Provide safe, inclusive, and accepting environment
- Emphasize equity and access for each individual student.
- Ensure community and family involvement
