Virtual Cooking Class Empowers Michigan Special Education Students

Virtual Cooking Class Empowers Michigan Special Education Students

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.

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Three Idaho Technical Career Academy High School Students Earn Artificial Insemination Certification From University of Idaho

Three Idaho Technical Career Academy High School Students Earn Artificial Insemination Certification From University of Idaho

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.

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Staff From Online Schools Distribute Gifts to Students in Need

Staff From Online Schools Distribute Gifts to Students in Need

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.

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Ovca Teachers Use ‘Zelda’ Livestream To Help Virtual Students Build Key Skills

Ovca Teachers Use ‘Zelda’ Livestream To Help Virtual Students Build Key Skills

Two OVCA educators created a weekly Legend of Zelda livestream that boosts reading, problem-solving, and digital communication skills while giving middle schoolers a safe, social space online. Students read text-heavy dialogue, collaborate on puzzles, and learn healthy screen-time habits. The stream has quickly become one of OVCA’s strongest engagement tools, with students reporting higher connection to peers, teachers, and the school overall. Sessions run Fridays for grades 6–8 through the Canvas homeroom calendar.

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An Author Already at Ten

An Author Already at Ten

Ten-year-old Zoey Robinson has already written ten books, starting with one about manners at age five. She develops ideas with her mom, drafts by hand or dictation, and works with an illustrator to bring her stories to life. Her books are sold in major bookstores and used in classrooms. Zoey also speaks internationally, earning a Global Influencer Award in London. A longtime Virginia Virtual Academy student, she enjoys the flexible schedule that supports her writing. Her next book will focus on gardening.

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Columbia Educator Honored With Challenge Coin

Columbia Educator Honored With Challenge Coin

Columbia Local and Carolus Online Academy teacher Heather Evans received the Superintendent’s Challenge Coin for her exceptional impact on students and staff. An eighth-grade math teacher and Middle School Team Lead, Evans engages students with interactive, discussion-based learning, supports teachers, and provides tutoring and weekly office hours. Recognized by SC Public Charter School District leaders for her dedication, integrity, and service, she is celebrated for fostering student success and strengthening the COA community.

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Knox Teacher Honored at Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala

Knox Teacher Honored at Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala

At the 2025 Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala in Indianapolis, Jennifer Burnette of Hoosier College and Career Academy (HCCA) was recognized with the Collaborative Educator Excellence Award. This honor highlights her dedication to maximizing student support through strategic partnerships and collaboration. The gala celebrated educators and schools across Indiana for achievements in literacy, STEM, professional development, and community engagement, awarding nearly $270,000 to individuals and institutions advancing student learning and exemplifying excellence in education.

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