2026 Graduate Spotlight: Jackson Dodd, Barker Creek

Jackson was homeschooled growing up through Barker Creek’s Parent Partnership Program, and some of his favorite memories were Friday “enrichment” days, when homeschooled students gathered in person on Barker Creek’s campus to learn, explore, and connect with one another. 

Those memories meant so much to Jackson that when he was asked to return as a teaching assistant for Friday enrichment after starting high school, he didn’t hesitate to say yes.

Jackson established himself as a diligent student with a full schedule. He balanced his academics with swimming for Central Kitsap High School and working as a lifeguard at both the Olympic Aquatic Center and the North Kitsap Community Pool. As a student, he often went above and beyond what was required. After a family trip to the United Kingdom, he independently wrote a research paper exploring art and architectural themes he had observed during the trip.

Raised as an only child, Jackson also shares a close bond with his grandparents, especially his grandfather, whom he sees as a father figure. One piece of advice from his grandfather has stayed with him: “Never stop learning.”

It is a lesson that reflects the curiosity and love of learning that have shaped Jackson’s experience at Barker Creek and one he plans to carry with him wherever life takes him.

Q&A

Plans after graduation: Attending Olympic College. He hopes to launch a career in either automotive or aeronautical engineering. 

Greatest accomplishment in CK Schools: Being able to accumulate as many high school credits as he did and breaking his personal records in the last swim meet of the year. 

Favorite memory in CK Schools: Making close friends in enrichment classes, especially right after COVID. 

A piece of advice that’s stuck out to him: The general support and encouragement from staff at Barker Creek. 

Where he sees himself in 20 years: He hopes to start an automotive company that recreates vintage vehicles with modern safety features built in.