The 2025 Tech Edvocate Awards finalists have been announced, with winners to be revealed on August 29, 2025. Stride, Inc. earned recognition across multiple categories: K12 Tutoring (Best Tutoring/Test Prep App or Tool), Stride Professional Development (Best Professional Development App or Tool), and Stride, Inc. (Best Global EdTech Company). In addition, Karen Bacon of Ohio Virtual Academy was named a finalist for Best K-12 Teacher.
Ranked No. 3 among the top men’s diving recruits for the high school class of 2027, Mikolas Schwickert of Clavadistas del Sol and Arizona Virtual Academy stands out for his precision, consistency, and versatility across springboard and platform events. A seasoned competitor for Team USA on the junior international level, Schwickert combines elite execution with steady performance—qualities that make him a valuable NCAA prospect with strong potential for continued growth and championship-level success.
Many children today lack consistent, meaningful social interaction—an essential part of developing empathy, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution skills. K12’s Chief Learning Officer, Niyoka McCoy, encourages families to foster connection through community activities like volunteering, clubs, and sports. For students facing barriers such as frequent moves, safety concerns, or health challenges, McCoy notes that K12-powered online schools offer belonging through live classes, group projects, and social opportunities that help every child feel seen and connected.
Nearly 20,000 Arizona families are choosing online education over traditional classrooms, even post-pandemic. For the Hernandez family, virtual learning at Arizona Virtual Academy provides flexibility and mental health support, helping Madison manage anxiety. The academy also serves medically fragile students and addresses socialization challenges through a moderated K-12 metaverse. With two K-12 schools in Arizona, the academy welcomes new students every two weeks, offering free, flexible learning options for families seeking alternatives to in-person schooling.