Student Relationships

The Benefits of 1:1 Teacher-Student Communication

By on July 20th, 2020

One concern parents express about moving their child from the traditional brick-and-mortar school into online education is a potential lack of student-teacher connection. Some worry the inability to physically approach a teacher’s desk leads to a more impersonal relationship, less help, or limited attention.  I’m here to tell you, it’s quite the opposite! 

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Building Online Elementary School Relationships

By on July 10th, 2019

When I first accepted a job with Florida Virtual School as a Kindergarten teacher, I thought there was no way I’d be able to make the same connections with my students as I did in a brick-and-mortar school. I don’t see my students every day and my role looks different than a traditional classroom teacher.

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Love and Respect Yourself and Those You Love

By on February 6th, 2017

This is the eighth post in a series by former FLVS student Makaila, a model, author, and student advocate.

SelfLove_BlogWhen I think of February, the first thing that pops into my mind is Valentine’s Day.

Go figure…

Valentine’s Day seems to be the only thing that people think about when February rolls around. Love is in the air (and sometimes the leap year is too), but more importantly, Valentine’s Day approaches and poses a dramatic urgency with questions like “Will I be single?” or “Do they like me?”

All questions that, at the time, seem to be the main focus.

I remember when I was in school, every Valentine’s Day my peers would anxiously await the teddy bears and notes that the SGA (Student Government) delivered to certain kids. The concept was something like a candy gram, but instead, you could be given a teddy bear and note. The whole thing was either anonymous or your crush would tell you over the note. Continue reading


Five Surprising Things About Teaching with FLVS

By on October 8th, 2015

5 Surprising Things About Teaching OnlineAs a veteran classroom teacher, I was both excited and scared when I made the leap to online instruction with FLVS last year.

Like many teachers who explore the virtual school option, I was attracted to the flexibility of online work. Not having to be in my classroom at 7:45 each morning? Win! Not having to wear professional shoes? Double win! There were lots of things to look forward to, but I was nervous too. Would the online experience feel cold and impersonal? Would I actually teach, and would students learn? Would online teaching challenge me professionally? I decided to make the leap, and I am SO happy that I did! I’ve learned that my fears were completely unfounded, and I’ve discovered lots of things along the way that have pleasantly surprised me about teaching and learning with FLVS. Continue reading