Alumni Spotlight: Montana Allen, 2024 Grad

For Montana Allen, traditional public school wasn’t the right fit. She needed a different environment—one that offered support, flexibility and a chance to succeed on her own terms. That’s what she found at Passport Academy Charter School. It’s that foundation that helped her go from the PACS Wolfpack to the Community College of Allegheny County, where she’s now a Wildcat pursuing a career as an ultrasound technician.

Support That Made a Difference

Montana credits her teachers for helping her overcome challenges. “Every teacher helped me in a lot of ways that I would never have imagined,” she said.

PACS provides a supportive, student-focused environment that helps students stay on track and reach graduation, and Montana said she experienced this firsthand. “From staying out of trouble, to keeping my grades up and making sure my work was done, they made sure I was on track.”

Preparing for the Future

Beyond academics, Montana feels PACS gave her real-world skills that helped her prepare for the hard moments that come with college. Her senior project at PACS also helped her explore her future career of becoming a cardiac ultrasound technician before she ever set foot on a college campus.

“It fit really well for my future because I want to be a cardiac ultrasound technician—so it shaped me by starting me at CCAC.”

Advice for Future Students

For those considering PACS, Montana offers this advice: “Be yourself. Don’t try to fit in with people—stay out of trouble and focus on school.”

That mindset paid off for her, as she’s now succeeding in college. Her journey is proof of the impact a school that truly supports its students can have. For those looking for a fresh start, PACS offers a path forward.