#Classof2022 Grad, Zachary D., Looks Back on 5 Years with FLVS
Cue the Graduation song, we’re about to celebrate #Classof2022 graduate, Zachary Donaldson!
Looking back on the past 5 years, Zachary couldn’t have known how much Florida Virtual School (FLVS) would impact his academic years. He simply wanted to transition out of homeschool to an accredited program. Now, Zachary says, “FLVS has helped me reach my fullest potential.”
Where Learning Takes Flight
As an independent learner, Zachary knew that he wanted to attend a school that would allow him to create his own schedule, and FLVS was the perfect fit, combining the rigorous curriculum with the flexibility of online learning, and, as he says, from the comfort of home.
And when the topics got tough, he knew help was just a call or email away.
“All the teachers I’ve had during my 5 years here have been amazing! They’re so joyful and kind, and you can really tell they love their jobs.” And that’s exactly why he says these three teachers have made the biggest impact on his learning:
- Mrs. Salvador, Spanish 2
- Mr. Torres, Foundations of Programming
- Mrs. Bellomy, Computer Science A
“And I can’t mention how great the teachers have been without also highlighting how great the club sponsors are!”
- Mr. Lambart and Mr. Womble, Chess Club
- Mr. McGill, Mrs. Lux, and Mrs. Cunha, Coding Club
- Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Myers, National Honor Society
“I really want to thank my teachers and sponsors for all that they have done and continue to do for their students.”
Where Life-long Friendships Grow
Did he say clubs? Yes. You read that right. FLVS is home to more than 60 clubs and activities where students, like Zachary, participate in virtual meetups and connect with students across the state.
As a member of the Chess Club, Coding Club, Math Peer Tutors, Student Government, National Honor Society, and Senior Class. Whew, that’s a lot! Zachary confirms that FLVS clubs have been a blast. He even formed friendships with a small group of students, and they have virtual hangouts every week!
Soaring to New Heights
Throughout his years with FLVS, Zachary has earned 12 awards and scholarships for his excellence in academics, FLVS clubs, and his community, including:
- 2018 Governor’s Perfect Score on Florida Statewide Science Assessment Award
- 2019 Good Samaritan Award – Saint Lucie County Sheriff (for saving a life)
- Civil Air Patrol—2020 Outstanding Assistance Certificate of Appreciation Award
- FLVS — 2021 Sunshine State Scholar
- 2022 Embry Riddle Diamond Eagle Scholarship Recipient
Needless to say, Zachary’s hard work and perseverance show in all that he does, exemplifying what it means to be a FLVS graduate.
So, what’s next? Like many other seniors, Zachary is counting down the days until he walks across the stage at the FLVS Full Time Graduation. The next day he’s off to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona! No, really. He gets to tour Embry-Riddle the day after graduation, where he plans to study Engineering Physics.
Congratulations, Zachary! We can’t wait to see you rise to the occasion.
Congratulations, FLVS Class of 2022!
If you’re a senior who would like to be featured, send us your photo and your plans after graduation at socialmedia@flvs.net or add #FLVSClassof2022 to your photos on Instagram.
And check out the FLVS Class of 2022 Graduation Page for exclusive content and Class of 2022 downloads.
Zach lives near me and I’ve watched him grow and mature into a remarkable young man, with obvious depth of character. He is destined to be an achiever. He has many of the characteristics I have noticed among co-workers while woking in a career in Information Systems. Recruiters will quickly recognize his strengths.