Leylany Naranjo Molina, CK High

Leylany moved to Kitsap County from Puerto Rico when she was in 8th grade. Her English was limited and she didn’t know anyone at her new school. Learning a new language in a completely new environment is hard enough, but Leylany is also dyslexic. “I already struggle with my own language, why are you giving me a new one?” Leylany remembers thinking. 

How did Leylany overcome these obstacles? Her positive attitude, for one. Instead of dwelling on how difficult learning a new language with dyslexia is, she took it as a badge of honor. How often does someone learn multiple languages, let alone with a learning disability? 

She credits many of her teachers, mainly Mr. McCarthy and Ms. Allmendinger, for helping her overcome language barriers and assimilate into the culture at CK High. Leylany also points to music as a connection point early on, as she was able to communicate with her classmates through music and through her violin in orchestra class. Thanks to these experiences, Leylany found her place at CKHS and looks forward to a bright future.

Q&A

Plans after graduation: Attending Olympic College. After attending West Sound Tech this past year, she plans on pursuing a job in the medical field because she wants to help others. 

Greatest accomplishment in CK Schools: Being able to pass with good grades. 

Favorite memory in CK Schools: Her orchestra classes, especially the field trip to Western Washington University. 

A piece of advice that stuck out to her: “You’re almost there, just keep going, don’t give up.” 

Where she sees herself in 20 years: “I see myself having my own life, either with kids or maybe if I don’t have kids as a travel nurse and go around the world.”