About Katie Hodgins
Katie Hodgins recently joined the FLVS team as a Content and Public Relations Specialist. A military veteran and lifelong learner, Katie enjoys communicating unique and innovative stories about people, places, and opportunities to inspire and engage the next generation. Having traveled throughout the world, she is excited to plant roots here in Florida and with Florida Virtual School.
Bienvenidos Hispanic Heritage Month with Latino Student Daniella Bonomo
By Katie Hodgins on September 28th, 2023
As we gear up for the cool, colorful autumn days, we’ve got an exciting student activity to kick off the season – Hispanic Heritage Month! It’s a time when we honor and cherish the rich cultural tapestry woven by Hispanic and Latino communities, celebrating their contributions to art, history, and society. At the heart of this celebration is the inspiring story of one of our amazing students, a beacon of excellence at Florida Virtual School (FLVS), whose accomplishments not only shine a light on Hispanic heritage but also exemplify the power of determination, intellect, and athleticism.
Continue readingA Rising Culinary Star Wins a Student Chef Cook-Off
By Katie Hodgins on September 25th, 2023
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of the Sunshine State! Juliet Karsak, a talented 7th grader from Florida Virtual School (FLVS), captured the hearts and palates of judges at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services 2022 Lunchroom Wars student chef cook-off. Her mouthwatering creation: the Florida Portabella Bruschetta Burger paired with Florida sweet corn and tomatoes, accompanied by a side of delectable Truffle Fries. Let’s explore how Juliet’s passion for cooking, educational experience, and determination led her to victory.
Continue reading13 Student Activities & Events You Don’t Want to Miss This Semester
By Katie Hodgins on August 29th, 2023
Can you believe the school year is already in full swing? Time flies when you’re having fun! Speaking of fun, this semester’s line-up of student activities and events includes celebrating national days, competitions, and learning how to stay safe while driving. Keep reading to learn about all the exciting activities Florida Virtual School (FLVS) has planned for this fall.
Continue readingSixth Grader Takes Pre-Algebra Course Over the Summer to Accelerate Learning
By Katie Hodgins on August 8th, 2023
Bella Vest didn’t know Florida Virtual School (FLVS) classes were an option until her Cypress Lake Middle School math teacher and team coach, Mrs. Wendland, suggested it. Since elementary school, Bella loved and excelled in her math classes. As a sixth grader at Cypress Lake Middle School in Fort Myers, Bella continuously sought to enhance her knowledge. This is why she jumped at the opportunity when Mrs. Wendland recommended she take pre-algebra, the 8th grade advanced math class, over the summer with FLVS before 7th grade.
Continue readingFlorida State Assessments Can Now Be Taken Outside Florida: A Win for Military Families
By Katie Hodgins on August 3rd, 2023
We’re excited to announce that Florida Virtual School (FLVS) Full Time students of military families now have the flexibility to participate in state assessments administered at their parents’ or guardians’ current military duty station. Families must submit a written request to include official documentation of the family’s current out-of-state duty station to receive this flexibility. Upon approval, parents and students won’t have to travel back to Florida for state or end-of-course testing.
Continue readingSTEM Summer Camp Empowers Florida Virtual School Students to Explore Future Careers
By Katie Hodgins on July 25th, 2023
Robots, virtual reality, video games, flight simulators. Do these grab your attention?? Recently, a group of our middle and high school students attended a week-long science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) summer camp at DoD STARBASE Central Florida, where they explored the exciting world of modeling, simulation, and training.
Continue readingSave Big on Back-to-School Shopping: Florida’s Tax-Free Holiday Guide
By Katie Hodgins on July 20th, 2023
As summer break starts to wind down, it’s time to “gear up” for an exciting two weeks that’ll make your back-to-school supply lists a little easier on your wallets. Mark your calendars for Florida’s Back-to-School Tax-Free Holiday from July 24 through August 6!
Continue reading#FVHSClassof2023: Meet Lauren Berning, FLVS Foundation Scholarship Winner!
By Katie Hodgins on June 15th, 2023
A family visit to the National Cryptologic Museum in Washington D.C. ignited a love for technology and cybersecurity in Lauren Berning, a recent Florida Virtual High School (FVHS) graduate. By taking cybersecurity courses through FVHS and enrolling in dual enrollment courses at Valencia College, Lauren accomplished the impressive feat of graduating a year early with a 4.0-grade point average. Plus, she is on track to receive her A.A. degree in Cybersecurity next semester.
As the graduation season for the Class of 2023 ends, we proudly recognize Lauren as one of our exceptional senior scholarship winners from the FLVS Foundation, the philanthropic organization of Florida Virtual School.
Continue reading#FVHSClassof2023: To the Familiar and Unfamiliar: Words of Advice from National Honor Society President, Olivia Herring
By Katie Hodgins on May 31st, 2023
“Good Afternoon, my name is Olivia Herring, your National Honor Society President. Thank you Principal Shick, board of trustees, faculty, staff, and of course families for being present here today to be part of such a momentous and well-worth waiting-for occasion, the graduation of the Senior Class of 2023!
Continue readingJumpstart Your Career With 4 New High School Career and Technical Education Courses
By Katie Hodgins on May 25th, 2023
In today’s rapidly evolving world, preparing for current and emerging professions has become more crucial than ever before. As technology advances and industries transform, staying ahead of the curve requires acquiring new skills and knowledge. At Florida Virtual School (FLVS), shaping your future is easier than you might think, and with four new Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses, you have even more opportunities to find your passion and gain real-world experiences!
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