FLVS Science Club
Student Shark Advocate Works with Legislators
By Guest Blogger on February 13th, 2019
This post was written by FLVS student and Model United Nations club member James A. La Fayette Jr.
Sierra Boodhoo is a 16-year-old student on a mission to make a positive impact on society. After experiencing racial profiling and bullying at her previous school, she switched to FLVS Flex in 7th grade where her interest in marine biology began. Her interest was sparked when she watched an episode of Shark Week with shark nets. She kept the flame going and researched sharks despite discouragement from others due to age, gender, and other societal bias.
She was told, “You are just an 11-year-old girl. Quit sharks. Switch to something girly like ballet.” Continue reading
Meet Sierra, FLVS Student & Shark Barrier Inventor
By Guest Blogger on July 27th, 2018
My name is Sierra and Florida Virtual School has provided me the opportunity to pursue various ambitions. My first step with FLVS was taken when I was in 7th grade. This year, I will be going into 11th grade with FLVS Flex. When I attended public school, I was harassed to the extent I had no choice but to leave the school. After much discussion, my parents and I agreed that FLVS was my best option. The summer I started virtual school was peaceful. I just had my school work, family, and the freedom to explore. It was the first time that year that I didn’t have to worry about being bullied.
With my newfound freedom, I watched my first Shark Week episode that summer. My mom and I spent the rest of that week watching, including an episode featuring Dr. Craig O’Connell’s Shark Safe Barrier. The concept of an innovative shark barrier sparked my imagination and was tangled in my thoughts for a while. Continue reading