RTA senior shines through academic excellence, leadership, and perseverance

Alicia Barton is a star student at the Rebecca Turner Academy who constantly inspires herself and those around her to face any obstacle and come out victorious. 

Alicia has maintained a high grade point average whilst receiving many accolades and praise from administrators and staff at RTA. She enjoys learning about history which she dubs as her favorite subject in school because she loves to read and learn new, interesting facts to speak about. 

Alicia started her senior year doing online learning through the Rebecca Turner Academy program, something she states was a bit challenging at first. It was a different experience to not be in a physical classroom. After transitioning into the physical classroom spaces of RTA, her grades have soared.

Whilst a student at RTA, Alicia has earned her place on the honor roll and won several awards, including a leadership award and the most enthusiastic learner award, amongst others.

“I feel good knowing I have the support that I need at RTA,” said Alicia. “ I have a lot of support over here, and getting those awards made me feel proud of myself because I overcame my obstacles.” 

Alicia Barton is not only a star in the school setting, but she was also recognized and given a scholarship of $500 by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 596 in 2024. To win, she submitted a stellar essay on the importance of democracy and the fundamental rights and freedoms of the people in America. She also read her essay at a Board of Education meeting and was honored at a banquet. 

You can read more about Alicia’s scholarship here! 

Alicia is a member of RTA’s No Place For Hate committee and participates in the activities and trips as a member, learning how to prevent bullying and teach others how to be kinder and more accepting of their differences. 

 “It was a great experience,” said Alicia.  “I love being in this committee because it helps to fight against bullying and brings everyone together.” 

On Saturdays, Alicia was also a part of a Regents prep group which helped her to pass all of her Regents exams. 

Alicia is interested in two pathways after high school: following in her mother’s footsteps and becoming a nurse or making a courageous leap and joining the U.S. military.  She enjoys taking care of people when they're sick and is inspired by hearing stories from her mother who is a nurse. 
Alicia is interested in continuing her education on a higher level and has applied to Lehman College and the University of Mount Saint Vincent. Educational success means a lot to her, and she prevents losing momentum by reading books at home to continue learning and growing. 

Alicia attributes much of her academic success to the love and support RTA provides her and stresses how important the program is for students. She highlights coming into the building every day, seeing all of the friends she made, and receiving support from staff and teachers who give their all to help RTA students. 

“I would like to thank the Rebecca Turner Academy for their support in me achieving most of the stuff I did throughout my senior year, getting so many honors and a scholarship,” said Alicia.  “I would like to thank my principal, Mr. Newbey, and my counselor, Ms. Peralta.”