Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy has named Tracie Grunewald its 2025 District Teacher of the Year. A high school math teacher since 2016, Grunewald is known for her dedication to students, passion for virtual education, and leadership among peers. She’s praised for helping students grow academically and personally while fostering school pride. Grunewald believes in inspiring students to exceed expectations and sees lasting impact in guiding them to discover confidence and a love of learning.
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Young Athlete Balances Sport and Online School
Lakewood senior Asher Weideman of Washington Virtual Academies is balancing academics with a rising career in professional disc golf. Competing in the Mixed Professional Open Division, he recently earned his first MPO victory after years of national tournaments. Online learning has allowed him to train, travel, and stay on track for graduation. Now earning college credits through Running Start, Asher plans to study business at GCU while continuing to pursue opportunities on the pro disc golf circuit.
Moncks Corner Senior Finds Success Through Virtual School, National Leadership Program
After health challenges made traditional school unsafe, Heron Virtual Academy senior Elizabeth Gilmore turned to virtual learning and found new opportunities to thrive. Now an A/B honor roll student, she serves as president of her school’s Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program, the only fully virtual school in the nation participating. Gilmore recently represented South Carolina at the National Student Leadership Academy and plans to study political science in college, aiming for a leadership role in the federal government.
Meet the 2026 Final Forte Contestants
Cordelia, a senior at Wisconsin Virtual Academy, is one of four student musicians advancing to the final round of the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 2026 Bolz Young Artist Competition at the Overture Center for the Arts. A violinist since age three, she has already earned national recognition, including first prize at the 2024 American International Music Competition and semifinalist honors in the 2025 Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Stars of Tomorrow Competition.