Scaling New Heights

Access Launch: How did you learn about Launch?
Samantha Matter: I was considering online school, and my mom did some research and wanted me to use Launch. She used to be a public school teacher, so she knew about it. I wanted the expanded class opportunities, and I liked that I could work at my own pace.

Access: How long have you been with Launch?
S.M.: I went to public school until seventh grade, and I started with Launch full-time in eighth grade. I’m currently a freshman.

Access: Describe your typical week day.
S.M.: I take all of my core classes live on Zoom in the mornings, except for History, which is later in the day. After my live classes, I usually tackle my asynchronous assignments. Right now I’m in eight classes, so I stay pretty busy!

Access: What’s your favorite class right now?
S.M.: Science! I just really like it.

Access: How do you connect with your teachers and classmates online?
S.M.: I interact a lot during my live Zoom classes, and I use the chat to connect. Last year, I went to office hours for math. That class was hard for me at first, but going to office hours really helped me understand what we were learning.

Access: What do you like to do outside of school?
S.M.: I compete in Ninja Warrior. I started last June, so I’ve been doing it for a year and a half. I also craft a lot. I like making bracelets! And I hang out with my two cats, Michelle and Pumpkin.

Access: Tell us more about Ninja Warrior—it sounds like so much fun!
S.M.: It really is! It takes up quite a bit of time, too. I practice twice a week and do competitions once or twice a month. Balance obstacles are my favorite—they’re challenging, but a lot of fun. I have some Ninja obstacles at home I practice on.

Access: Do you have a favorite thing about Ninja Warrior?
S.M.: I love that it’s different from other sports, and the community is super supportive. I’d love to be on the show one day!

Access: What clubs or organizations have you been
involved in?
S.M.: I was in Launch’s new National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) organization last year, and I even got picked to be the president! I led meetings and guided everyone through projects, including Teacher Appreciation Week.

Access: Describe the perfect Saturday.
S.M.: I like being active—practicing Ninja Warrior, or sometimes, if I want to relax, crafting at home. I also like hanging out with my older sister and playing with my cats!

Access: What’s your dream vacation?
S.M.: I’d love to go to Australia, for the beaches!

Access: And how about a favorite food?
S.M.: I’d have to say chicken.

Access: What advice would you give to a student thinking about Launch?
S.M.: Do it! It’s really fun, and there are so many learning opportunities. The teachers are great, and the live classes help you interact and stay on track.

Access: What’s next for you after graduation?
S.M.: I’m thinking about a healthcare career—maybe a nurse or a physical therapy assistant—and I’d like to attend North Central Missouri College.