Issue 24: Update on Landrie Pringle | Thriving in High School

Three years ago, we introduced Landrie Pringle—a bright, spirited 12-year-old from Groesbeck, Texas, taking on her dyslexia and ADD with a big heart and even bigger ambition. Back then, Landrie was navigating the ups and downs of being newly diagnosed. She was learning to cope with challenges in reading and focus but didn't let that stop her from diving into school clubs, sports, and even competitive oral reading. Supported by her mom, who always reminded her not to give up, Landrie tackled each challenge her own way with fierce determination and a contagious positive attitude.

Today, Landrie is a junior in high school and has taken her journey to a whole new level. Despite facing major struggles in middle school, including failing some of her STAAR tests in 7th and 8th grade, Landrie has turned it all around. Now, she's thriving in all her classes, has passed all her EOC STAAR exams, and is balancing a packed schedule filled with cheering, volleyball, softball, and a variety of clubs. She manages it all, with her lowest grade this year, a 97. Landrie isn't just keeping up—she's blowing the glass ceiling of dyslexia out of the water. In this interview, she shares how she found her footing, what kept her pushing forward, and how she's redefining success on her own terms.

Since the last time we spoke, you've faced a lot of academic challenges, how did you stay motivated during that difficult time?

I had to keep reminding myself that a test does not define who I am as a person, and just because you fail a test doesn't mean you aren't smart. I also learned that the STAAR tests every kid the same way, and we do not all think the same way. I also started doing better in class, so I knew I was learning, just not the way a test said I should.

Was there a specific moment or strategy that helped you start thriving in your classes and extracurricular activities?

Hard work and not giving up were what helped me start thriving in my classes. There were many times I felt defeated and wanted to give up, but you just can't; you have to keep on working. It is kinda like in sports: when you make a bad play, my dad always yells, "Turn the page", meaning you can't do anything about that one. Move on and work hard for the next play. Same thing in the classroom; you may have a bad day, test, or assignment, but you just have to keep working and try your best to do better on the next one.

How did your family, friends, and teachers help you through your middle school struggles?

I had a great support system through middle school. My parents were always there to help and cheer on any successes I had. My math teacher spent time with me and made sure I understood what I was doing. My ELAR teacher and mom met, and she decided that the regular class I was in was too much, too loud and distracting, so she suggested moving me to a smaller honors class. This scared me to death. However, she promised me she would grade me as a regular student, but she thought the smaller setting and higher-level discussions would help me. She was correct. It was a blessing to be in a class where I could focus and learn. I believe that class gave me confidence that I hadn't had before and helped me not only pass the reading STAAR that year but also make Meets, which I had never done.

You're involved in so many sports and clubs—cheerleading, volleyball, softball, and more. How do you balance your busy schedule while also excelling academically?

I miss a lot of time in class due to leaving early for games and helping with different clubs, and it can become hectic to get everything finished. I try very hard to stay on top of my work so I don't get behind because it almost seems impossible to get caught up if I do. I spend any extra time in class after a missed day making sure assignments are finished. I do not have a lot of time at home to get things done. My Mondays start at 6:30 AM and are over around 8:30 PM. But if I have work, then I stay up and get it finished. My teachers are great at working with me, and I am very thankful for that.

What strategies have you developed over the years to help manage your dyslexia and ADD?

I know it kinda sounds crazy, but as I have gotten older, I have just learned to manage both better. I still read things crazy from time to time, and I have figured out how to catch myself and realize what I read was all wrong and can go back and fix that. It does still take me a little longer than the average student, but it is manageable. When I was younger, I felt this was never going to get better, but it has. With the ADD, I have to remind myself a lot to focus, and when I am tired, it is way worse than at other times.

You're excelling academically, with your lowest grade being a 97. How does it feel to achieve such success after the challenges you faced in middle school?

I am super excited that my grades are so high. I feel like I have accomplished a lot since I was in middle school and have come a long way. I am still not where I strive to be but I am definitely on the right path to get there.

Now that you've come so far, what are your goals for the rest of high school and beyond?

I am really wanting to keep moving up in class rank. I started at 39th. I am now 29th in my class. I hope to play softball in college and eventually become a NICU nurse.

Landrie Pringle

Extracts from Dystinct Magazine