Ahead of National Student Athlete Day, 14-year-old Capriana “Cappie” Zamora is making waves as an elite jiu-jitsu competitor and standout student. Once unsure about the sport, Cappie now trains up to six days a week, competes nationally, and leads with passion—both on the mat and in the classroom through North Carolina Virtual Academy. As team captain and youth coach, she’s inspiring others while chasing her dream of one day opening a woman-led jiu-jitsu gym.
A Michigan educator is helping special education students build essential life skills through a virtual cooking class. Stacy Eckstorm of Insight School of Michigan provides live instruction from students’ own kitchens, teaching meal preparation, kitchen safety, healthy eating, and problem-solving. Designed for students earning a certificate of completion, the program offers hands-on, real-world learning. Parents describe the experience as impactful and life-changing, helping students gain confidence, independence, and practical skills for the future.
Three Idaho Technical Career Academy high school students completed a three-day artificial insemination course at the University of Idaho, gaining hands-on experience and certification. The program taught reproductive anatomy, AI techniques, and industry regulations, preparing students for Idaho’s state licensure exam. Led by ITCA Agriculture Instructor Abigail Heikes, the training builds technical skill, leadership, and real-world readiness, supporting Idaho’s future agricultural workforce and aligning with ITCA’s career-focused, hands-on online education in high-demand fields.
Teachers and staff from Colorado Preparatory Academy and Pikes Peak Online School came together to deliver holiday gifts to more than 100 students experiencing homelessness or housing instability across Colorado. Led by McKinney-Vento Coordinator Kimberly Ashby, the volunteer-driven program provides essential items and meaningful connections beyond the virtual classroom. The effort supports students’ basic needs, builds trust with families, and reinforces that online educators can be a steady, caring presence in students’ lives.