What does it take to excel in both world-class education and elite ballet training?
For ASU Prep Digital 11th grader Gracie Kirkwood, the answer lies in passion, persistence and the essential support of a flexible learning model that empowers her to follow her dreams.
Born and raised in Ohio, Gracie discovered her love for dance at the age of 3. Over the years, she trained in almost every style of dance, but ballet quickly became her favorite. “I hope to one day become a professional ballerina in a company in Europe,” Gracie shares. “I have been dancing almost my whole life, working toward my dream of hopefully one day performing on some of the biggest stages in the world doing what I love most.”
Three years ago, Gracie moved to Arizona to attend a ballet school, immersing herself in the training she needed to pursue her dreams. Now, at just 16 years old, she has taken her passion to an international stage. Since September, Gracie has lived in Stuttgart, Germany, where she studies at the prestigious John Cranko Schule, a pre-professional ballet boarding school that demands extraordinary discipline and dedication.
Even as she balances this rigorous ballet program, Gracie continues to thrive academically through the flexibility and support of ASU Prep Digital.
A demanding but rewarding journey
Gracie’s daily schedule at John Cranko Schule is nothing short of intense. The program spans two years and is designed to prepare students for high-level professional careers in ballet.
“The training involves six days of classes with Sundays as our rest day,” Gracie explains. “Each day is different, but we have ballet, partnering, pointe and variations in the mornings, followed by German, anatomy, dance history, music theory, ballet theory, modern, Spanish and castanets in the evenings. Rehearsals are also added throughout the week for upcoming exams or performances.”
Adjusting to this incredible experience hasn’t been without its hurdles. “Although the school has been amazing so far, it has brought some challenges in managing my schedule and adapting to a new country,” Gracie shares. Still, her determination keeps her focused on her lifelong goal of becoming a professional ballerina.
The right support to pursue big ambitions
Managing both elite ballet training and academic success requires a strong support system, and this is where ASU Prep Digital has played a vital role. Gracie has been a full-time ASUPD student since her family discovered the program while researching options after moving to Arizona.
“This program has been amazing in helping me work toward my goals,” Gracie shares. “It has given me the flexibility to complete my classes despite my very busy schedule. I like how involved and supportive the teachers are when it comes to my academic success. The assignments and lessons are very helpful and informative, giving me the best education. Overall, I am very thankful for this program because it has given me the opportunity to pursue my goals of being a professional ballerina while still getting a good education at the same time.”
Principal Dr. Robert Striebel reflects on Gracie’s remarkable dedication, stating, “She continues to demonstrate a tremendous dedication to her personal and professional goals.” He adds that Gracie maintains a stellar 4.0 GPA while meeting additional academic requirements of her German sister school in Stuttgart.
Where passion meets possibility
Gracie Kirkwood’s inspiring story highlights that success doesn’t require choosing between education and passion. With the right support system, it’s possible to excel in both.
ASU Prep Digital, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade, offers a personalized learning experience tailored to each student’s unique path. Teachers and staff collaborate with learners like Gracie, fostering both academic excellence and the pursuit of personal dreams without forcing them to sacrifice one for the other.
Discover how ASU Prep Digital empowers students to pursue their passions—whether in the arts, athletics, sciences, or beyond—while achieving academic excellence. Join an upcoming information session to see how ASUPD can support extraordinary goals.
