Kaleigh Walker Community Partners, Student Success, Student Supports

Music Education Enhanced with Generous Instrument Donations

Three Knoxville-area middle schools will be playing in harmony, thanks to a generous donation from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and the CMA Foundation.

Bearden Middle, Gresham Middle, and Vine Middle Magnet have been gifted musical instruments valued at over $180,000, enriching the musical experiences of students and supporting the importance of incorporating music into school curriculums.

Bearden Middle School received instruments including violins, violas, cellos, and double basses, with a total donation value of $26,208. 

Orchestra director Rachel Peña expresses her gratitude, stating, “Each instrument is an opportunity for each student to work on their talent and skills. This builds up their self-esteem and what they consider possible in the future.” She continued, “Every instrument we received is a new opportunity for a student to experience how music changes our lives.”

Bearden Middle School’s instrument unveiling on Friday, April 26, with special guest Carly Pearce.

Gresham Middle School’s music program was bolstered by donations totaling $100,358, comprising a diverse array of instruments from flutes and clarinets to brass and percussion. 

“I am most excited that now all students will be able to play an instrument just for them! So many of my students were sharing an instrument with another student, and now they get to use one that is all their own,” said GMS band director Gracie Alward. “I love the culture we have established within the band program. Band is a place unlike any other in the school building, and I think they are beginning to find their place here in the band room.”

Gresham Middle School’s instrument unboxing on Tuesday, April 23.

Vine Middle Magnet School, with a donation value of $55,044, will benefit from instruments spanning woodwinds, brass, and percussion, including a concert bass drum and xylophone. 

“Vine Middle Magnet School’s band aims to teach students the confidence, discipline, and independence to reach their individual musical potential,” said band director Jessica Huffaker. “The CMA Foundation and Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation has gifted the VMMS band with the needed resources to accommodate increased band enrollment, allowing all interested students the opportunity to pursue their instrumental music education.”

Vine Middle Magnet School’s instrument unboxing on Friday, April 19.

The impact of these donations extends far beyond the classroom. They provide opportunities for more students to participate in ensemble performances and competitions, instilling a sense of pride and accomplishment. They also ensure inclusivity by removing financial barriers that may prevent students from pursuing their musical interests.

The collaboration between The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and the CMA Foundation exemplifies the power of partnerships in supporting arts education. Their commitment to providing resources and instruments to schools across the nation amplifies the vital role of music in the development of students. 

As these instruments find their home in the music rooms of Bearden, Gresham, and Vine, they represent not just material possessions, but symbols of growth, opportunity, and the transformative power of music in the lives of students. 

With every note played, they remind us of the importance of nurturing the artistic talents of the next generation.

Kaleigh Walker Great Educators, Student Supports

Celebrating School Bus Drivers & Ruby Hensley

The wheels on the school buses that transport KCS students all across the county are carefully and attentively driven by dedicated school bus drivers, including long-time employee Ruby Hensley.

With over three decades of service under her belt, Ruby has become a beloved figure in the lives of countless students who have had the privilege of riding her bus since 1989.

“I love my job, and I love the kids,” Ruby remarks with a warm smile when asked about her journey as a bus driver. “I really do.”

Ruby’s love for her job shines through as she transports students of all ages, from the kindergarteners to the high schoolers. 

While she admits that the elementary kids hold a special place in her heart, Ruby cherishes each interaction with her passengers, no matter their age or grade.

Over the years, Ruby has witnessed the ebb and flow of challenges in her profession, including bus driver shortages. Despite the hurdles, Ruby and her fellow drivers rally together, ensuring that each child reaches their destination safely, even if it means putting in extra effort.

For Ruby, the true reward comes from the bonds she forms with her passengers, many of whom remember her fondly even after they’ve grown up and started families of their own. 

“It’s really nice to know that they still remember me after so many years,” Ruby said. “They’ll come up to me and say, ‘You were the best driver,’ or ‘I missed you driving my bus when you left.'”

One such memorable moment recently occurred when Gabe Scott, a student on Ruby’s bus, invited her to his kindergarten music program at East Knox County Elementary School. 

Gabe, knowing that Ruby would be there for him, eagerly extended the invitation, showcasing the special bond between a caring bus driver and her passenger.

The joy on Gabe’s face as he embraced Ruby after the program spoke volumes about the impact she has had on his life. 

“If I can make one kid happy in a day’s time, I’m happy,” Ruby remarks, her eyes shining with pride.

As Ruby continues her journey behind the wheel, her dedication and love for the children she transports remain unwavering. 

Whether it’s a reassuring smile, a listening ear, or a comforting presence, Ruby Hensley embodies the spirit of School Bus Driver Appreciation Day every day of the year.

Knox County Schools is grateful to Ruby Hensley and all the dedicated bus drivers like her, whose tireless efforts ensure that students arrive safely at their destinations, and whose kindness leaves a lasting impact on the hearts of those they serve.

Kaleigh Walker Community Partners

New Playspaces Break Ground at KAEC and Fair Garden

In December 2023, the Knox Education Foundation (KEF) announced the establishment of the Playspace Fund, a private-public fund formed to address the inconsistencies in play spaces across Knox County Schools. 

The Knoxville Adaptive Education Center (KAEC) and the Fair Garden Family Center are among the seven schools designated to benefit from Phase 1 of the Playspace Fund, and work is already underway at KAEC. 

“I met with KEF and found out that KAEC was chosen to go in this first round of playgrounds,” said Ashley Ketner, KAEC principal. “I got to see the plans that they had for the space, and it was hard for me to not tell anybody for a while because it was pretty exciting.”

Ketner estimated the old playground had been around for 20 years, initially funded by the Friends of KAEC. Now, the space is nearly emptied out, ready for the new installations. 

The entire school–staff and students included–are eagerly awaiting the project’s completion, which is estimated to wrap up before the end of the school year. 

“It’s just nice to have something nice,” Ketner said. “It’s great that they thought of us for this project, and the staff feels that, too.”

Across town, Fair Garden Family Center is next in the queue for playspace upgrades, and Principal Tara Howell-Spikes expressed her gratitude for the community’s involvement in shaping the vision for the new playground.

“I appreciate all the individuals from the East Knoxville Business and Professional Association who came out to get my feedback on what was age-appropriate for preschoolers and shared my concerns about the playground space our kids had,” Howell-Spikes said. “I’m so glad that the vision is finally becoming a reality.”

Their new space will be finished over the summer. What a great way to kick off the new school year!

The playground renovations at both schools are expected to provide vibrant and safe spaces for students to play, learn, and grow, and the KAEC and Fair Garden communities eagerly anticipate the transformation of their play areas, thanks to the support of the Knox Education Foundation and the Playspace Fund.

The other five schools identified in Phase 1 as the highest-need schools in the district–Belle Morris Elementary, Fountain City Elementary, Sarah Moore Greene Magnet Academy, Spring Hill Elementary, and West Haven Elementary–will see their new spaces soon as construction moves forward. 

KEF continues to raise the remaining $2.3 million in funding needed to standardize play spaces across the county. Learn more about this initiative at knoxed.org/play.

Kaleigh Walker Student Supports

The Vital Role of School Psychologists

Schools are full of professionals who work tirelessly to promote the success of each student. Educators, food service workers, administrative assistants, educational support personnel, and so many more. An additional–and equally essential–part of the team is the school psychologist.

Their jobs can be summarized into one, all-encompassing descriptor: collaborators.

“We work directly with students, teachers, admin, parents, or other stakeholders to identify ways we can provide additional supports for kids that need some help,” said Rachel Scott, a lead school psychologist who works at Northwest Middle, West High, Paul Kelley Volunteer Academy, and the Richard L. Bean Juvenille Detention Center. 

Scott sheds light on the multifaceted nature of her role. Direct interactions with students, consultations with educators, meetings with various stakeholders, and mentoring colleagues punctuate her routine. 

Whether conducting assessments, supporting discussions during various collaborative school-based meeting, or consulting with colleagues, every action serves a singular purpose: to nurture the academic and emotional well-being of students. 

Scott’s passion for her job shines through as she reflects on the variety and challenges it entails, emphasizing the profound impact it has on the lives of young learners.

“A large part of the job is advocating for students from a position of knowledge, and also making sure to show empathy and compassion for everyone at the table,” she said. “We’re all here for the same reason: to help students access and achieve academic success.”

Brittany Williams Jaynes, another dedicated school psychologist at Karns Preschool, Fair Garden Family Center, Karns Elementary, and Mill Creek Elementary, echoes Scott’s sentiments, highlighting the collaborative nature of their work. 

In her role, Williams Jaynes navigates a spectrum of responsibilities, from conducting evaluations to spearheading initiatives aimed at supporting students’ behavioral and mental health.

“It’s a great job because no two days are the same,” Williams Jaynes said. “And it’s so neat to see the students that maybe needed extra academic or social support and just how much they’ve grown by the time they head off to middle school.”

Beyond evaluations and consultations, school psychologists like Williams Jaynes embrace innovative approaches to student support. 

In collaboration with a Karns Elementary counselor, Williams Jaynes hosts the “Lunch Bunch,” a weekly social group for students on the autism spectrum.

These initiatives not only nurture students’ well-being but also create a sense of belonging and inclusivity within the school community.

“We invite peer models to eat with us and the students, and there were some friendships that grew for kids that struggled in that area,”  Williams Jaynes said.

Scott and Williams Jaynes’ narratives draw attention to the profound impact of school psychologists on student success and well-being. 

As advocates, assessors, and allies, these professionals play a pivotal role in creating nurturing environments where every student can thrive. 

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Student Success

HVA Seniors Preparing for Their Journey into Education

A group of passionate high school seniors from the Hardin Valley Academy Teaching as a Profession (TAP) program gathered for a Future Teacher Signing, ready to pursue their aspirations in the classroom.

Each student has a unique story that led them to follow this path and dedicate their careers to shaping young minds and making a difference in the lives of students.

For some, like Kenna McKaig, volunteering with childcare at her church ignited a passion for working with children. Her unwavering commitment to the younger students has been a driving force behind her decision to become a special education teacher. 

Similarly, Madison Standifer discovered her calling during her eighth-grade year, realizing her affinity for interacting with middle schoolers and fostering a love for studying English and language arts.

Others, like Kayla Ramsey, found inspiration from her mother who is an educator, following in her footsteps while also embracing the nurturing aspect of teaching. 

Molly Glenn fell in love with teachers’ ability to influence their students’ lives and stand as a positive example for those at a young age.

Throughout their high school years, these students have immersed themselves in classroom experiences, gaining invaluable insights from experienced educators and honing their teaching skills.

From field experiences in elementary schools to shadowing special education classes, the TAP program has provided these students with hands-on learning opportunities that extend beyond traditional classroom settings. 

“Our pathway truly sets us up for success,” Standifer said. “We learn the fundamentals and different parts of the education career that aren’t just teaching in a classroom. We will be learning about learning styles and how students’ brains operate.”

They are given the unique opportunity to assist with lesson plans, engage with students one-on-one, and witness the internal workings of school cultures, and each experience has reinforced their passion for teaching.

“Once you start to get to know the class, some of the kids start to warm up to you, and it’s always my favorite when they run and hug me in the morning,” Ramsey said. “It’s so sweet when they start telling me their stories from when they were at home or what they did over the weekend.”

McKaig agreed that the personal relationships formed with students can be the most gratifying, stating, “It’s really fun when, after a while, some of the kids who were usually pretty shy started asking to work with me.”

Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding education, these seniors remain steadfast in their dedication. 

They acknowledge the hardships faced by educators, but they also find solace in the impactful moments that reaffirm their choice to pursue teaching.

“I know it is really hard, but I also know it’s a really good place to be when you have a heart for loving kids,” Glenn said.

At the signing event, KCS Executive Director of HR Talent Acquisition Alex Moseman made an exciting announcement, further solidifying their path in education as all participants in the TAP program are guaranteed interviews with KCS upon graduation. 

This recognition serves as a testament to these students’ preparedness to embark on their teaching careers.

Looking ahead, the nine TAP seniors are eager to continue their education, with plans to attend Pellissippi State, Tennessee Tech, Sanford University, ETSU, UTC, and Lee University.

Their participation in the TAP program not only prepared them academically but also equipped them with practical skills and a deep understanding of the teaching profession.

As they prepare to step into classrooms of their own, these high school seniors stand poised to make a meaningful impact on future generations.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

JROTC Cadets Earn Full-Ride Army ROTC Scholarships

Two exceptional JROTC cadets from South-Doyle High School have achieved a remarkable milestone by securing full-ride Army ROTC scholarships, paving the way for their college education without the burden of financial strain. 

Zach Barrier and Sam Trumpore, both deeply committed to serving their country, will be attending Carson-Newman University together, embarking on their journeys toward becoming officers in the United States Army.

For Barrier, the legacy of military service runs deep within his family, stretching back to the Revolutionary War. 

“It’s kind of a family legacy,” Barrier said. “It feels like I’m part of something bigger than myself.”

With an interest in becoming a physical therapist, Barrier recognizes the scholarship’s value not only in alleviating financial stress but also in providing a secure future with a fulfilling career.

Trumpore’s motivation stems from the career prospects and the opportunity to serve his country, and he views the scholarship as a gateway to pursuing his passion for criminal justice, with aspirations of attending law school post-graduation. 

His journey through JROTC has not only instilled discipline and work ethic but has also served as a catalyst for personal growth, transforming him from a reserved kid to a confident leader.

“It’s really opened my eyes to how much I can do if I just put my mind to it,” Trumpore said. “It helps you build a work ethic and learn to stay committed to things.”

Both cadets credit their involvement in JROTC for shaping their character and providing invaluable leadership experiences. 

Barrier, who has held various leadership positions within the program, highlights the program’s impact on his athletic pursuits, enhancing his performance on the baseball team and fostering a sense of camaraderie among his peers. 

Trumpore emphasizes the transformative power of JROTC, which not only helped him discover his passion for running but also equipped him with the resilience and determination necessary to overcome challenges.

Retired Maj. Marcus Vartan, the JROTC instructor, highlights the program’s primary objective of nurturing well-rounded individuals who are committed to serving their communities. 

Through extensive community service initiatives, including Civil War cemetery clean-ups and food bank volunteering, cadets are instilled with a sense of civic duty and empathy, preparing them for future leadership roles. 

“Our mission is to motivate young people to be better citizens,” Vartan said. “And we see that mostly through community service, in becoming good teammates, and working as a team.”

This year’s service learning project was working to solve food insecurity in East Tennessee through partnerships with Beardsley Farms and Second Harvest Food Bank. 

On campus, their continuous improvement project had the battalion renovate an old rugby shed into usable conference rooms, study spaces, and a weight room for the cadets.

The Cherokee Battalion also set the JROTC national record two years ago for the most flags retired: 6,132 in total. 

These projects are just the beginning of the program’s involvement in their community and school. 

Vartan emphasizes the significance of the Army ROTC scholarships in recognizing cadets’ academic, athletic, and leadership achievements, and last year, South-Doyle had a record of three cadets who earned the coveted scholarship. 

As Barrier and Trumpore embark on their college journeys, they epitomize the values of dedication, service, and leadership instilled by the JROTC program.

With the support of the Army ROTC scholarships, they are poised to make significant contributions to their communities and nation while pursuing their academic and professional aspirations.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment

Paving Pathways to Healthcare Careers and Beyond: Roane State and the 865 Academies

Roane State Community College (RSCC) prepares students across the region to pursue their dream careers, and Knox County Schools and the 865 Academies created an innovative partnership to provide students with immersive experiences and insights into potential postsecondary pathways. 

The Assistant Director of Recruiting at Roane State’s Oak Ridge Campus, Stephanie Bishop, discusses the college’s involvement in the 865 Academies.

“Our goal with these is getting the program directors involved in showcasing their offerings and helping students make those connections between the pathway they’ve chosen and the material they will learn to see if it’s something that is of interest to them,” Bishop said. “I know there have been a few students who have toured our campus so far that have found opportunities that they didn’t know were available before.”

Roane State’s commitment to providing tailored educational experiences for high school, college, and adult learners highlights its dedication to meeting workforce needs and fostering career exploration and readiness, a similar goal to the 865 Academies.

Recently, a group of students visited the RSCC Oak Ridge Campus for a hands-on showcase of the diverse offerings available to students. This particular tour focused on the pathways available in the health sciences with looks into the nursing, health information management (HIM), medical laboratory technician (MLT), and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) programs.

“We like to take our students into the nursing lab with the mannequins that will breathe, have heartbeats, and do other things, and we give some demonstrations that show what they might do in class,” said Michelle Cash, the nursing program director.

HIM Program Director April Insco highlighted how her program works to prepare students for a career in healthcare on the medical coding and patient informatics side.

“We are one of only four programs in the state accredited through CAHIIM,” Insco said. The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) allows students to become Registered Health Information Technicians.

The MLT program at Roane State plays a vital role by training students to perform diagnostic tests on patient samples. 

“It’s a very rigorous program, but this is the perfect place for someone who wants to make a difference and be in healthcare but wants to be more behind the scenes,” said Madeline Hibbard, the MLT program director.

The Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Roane State focuses on helping individuals achieve greater independence in daily activities. 

Cindy Ayo, the interim OTA program director, highlights the diverse range of activities OTAs engage in, stating, “Don’t let the title fool you.”

“I worked with individuals who have been injured to get them back to a place so they can return to their job, but I’ve also worked with people to learn to brush their hair again or taught infants how to roll over and crawl or coached children on their handwriting,” Ayo said. “Occupational therapy is so much more than what people think it is.”

All the program directors from these fields emphasized the need for high-quality, educated professionals in healthcare, and students throughout Knox County Schools can begin their exploration of health science at almost any high school in the district. 

Learn more at knoxschools.org/academies.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Community Partners

Johnson University and The 865 Academies Forge Pathways to Success

Expanding on the partnership between Johnson University (JU) and Knox County Schools’ 865 Academies provides an excellent opportunity to showcase the mutually beneficial relationship between the institutions and the positive impact it has on students’ educational experiences.

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Johnson University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and community engagement. With a commitment to innovation and expansion, JU has eagerly embraced the opportunity to collaborate with the 865 Academies, which is revolutionizing the high school experience for students across the district.

Since its inception in 2023, the 865 Academies has aimed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of post-secondary options, including college tours designed to offer firsthand insights into campus life. Recognizing the value of this initiative, Johnson University opened its doors to welcome students from Knox County Schools, inviting them to explore its vibrant campus, diverse programming, and close-knit community.

Johnson University Chief Academic Officer Lisa Tarwater expressed excitement about the partnership.

“To see it all come together and be part of the partnership with Knox County Schools is a truly exciting opportunity for us to engage with students and help shape their educational journey,” she said. “We are thrilled to play a role in each student’s decision-making process.”

The campus tours organized by Johnson University are tailored to cater to students’ interests across a wide range of disciplines, including education, business, health sciences, and creative arts. 

JU Recruitment Coordinator Amber Cofer emphasized the value of these personalized visits.

“These tailored visits help students actually see what they could be doing in a hands-on environment in our classrooms,” she said.

Faculty members at Johnson University actively participate in these tours, eager to support students in making informed decisions about their future endeavors. 

Associate Professor of Business and Leadership Dr. John Stricklen applauds the 865 Academies’ inclusive approach, which extends beyond traditional college-bound pathways.

“I love that the Academies do not focus exclusively on college-bound opportunities. There is a tremendous need for skilled tradespeople, and this gives students an opportunity to see and experience what different careers could look like,” he said.

The partnership between Johnson University and the 865 Academies underscores a shared commitment to student success and academic excellence. By providing students with immersive campus experiences and diverse educational pathways, this collaboration enriches the educational landscape of Knox County and prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Kaleigh Walker 865 Academies, Career Empowerment, Student Success

JoAnna Brooks: A Journey through Karns High School as an 865 Academies Ambassador

Karns High School has been witnessing a transformative shift in its educational landscape through the innovative 865 Academies system, and at the heart of this change is student JoAnna Brooks. 

Brooks, a sophomore at Karns High, is making waves as an 865 Academies Ambassador, representing the Academy of Health Science and Human Services.

Choosing this Academy wasn’t a random decision for Brooks; it stemmed from her genuine interest in science, particularly in the intricacies of health and neurology. Her passion for understanding the human brain and its functions drives her academic pursuits. 

“There’s so much that goes on in the brain,” Brooks said. “Right now in my health science classes, we’re learning about different systems and how the brain functions with those systems, and I think it’s all really cool.”

Through her Academy courses, Brooks has had unique opportunities to explore various healthcare facilities, including visits to South College and UTMC.

Beyond her academic endeavors, JoAnna actively participates in extracurricular activities, including the school band and the Scholars Bowl, showcasing her diverse interests and talents. Her involvement in the Scholars Bowl reflects her penchant for intellectual challenges and problem-solving.

As an 865 Academies Ambassador, Brooks takes pride in representing her Academy and guiding prospective students through the school’s offerings. She finds fulfillment in mentoring freshmen and providing them insights into successfully navigating high school.

“It’s helped me so much to speak up and be confident in what I’m talking about,” Brooks said. “I love giving tours to the 8th-graders and helping with the pathway fairs to show the freshmen what all they can do here.”

Her parents, including her mother Mary Brooks, the Academy Coach at Karns High, provide unwavering support and encouragement, fostering an environment where her daughter feels empowered to explore her interests and aspirations freely.

“She’s a go-getter,” Mary Brooks said. “And the Academies are helping her a lot. She has changed so much from middle school to high school; I’m so proud of her.”

JoAnna’s story epitomizes the essence of the 865 Academies — a platform for students to discover their passions, pursue their aspirations, and prepare for future success. 

Through her dedication, resilience, and leadership as an 865 Academies Ambassador, JoAnna Brooks embodies the spirit of striving for success and excellence.

As JoAnna continues her academic journey, her impact as a student leader and aspiring neuroscientist will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy within the Karns High School community and beyond. 

With her unwavering determination and boundless potential, JoAnna Brooks is poised to make a significant mark in healthcare and academia.

Kaleigh Walker Student Success, Student Supports

Bridging the Gap: Virtual School Students Now Have a Shot at Sports

Students choose to attend the Knox County Virtual School for all sorts of reasons: a flexible school schedule, medical reasons or special needs accommodations, or a different learning environment.

The Virtual School gave students a space to learn from home while still offering extracurriculars, clubs, and in-person events for students to build a community and socialize with others. However, up until November 2023, Virtual School scholars were unable to participate in school-based athletics.

In a move to increase the inclusivity and opportunities for all students, Virtual School Principal Jennifer Garrett and KCS Athletics Specialist Bryan Brown spearheaded work allowing students to participate in sports at their base schools. 

This initiative, born out of a dedication to equity and recognizing the diverse needs of students, marks a significant step forward in breaking down barriers that previously hindered Virtual School students from engaging in extracurricular activities.

Garrett, speaking passionately about the decision, emphasized the fundamental principle of equal opportunity. 

“We had a lot of students that wanted to come to us but still wanted to play sports, and that was kind of an inhibitor for them,” she said. “Students want to be able to do everything and be included in everything, so I’m sure that they are just absolutely thrilled.”

The sentiment echoes the belief that regardless of where a student attends school, they should have access to the same opportunities for personal growth and socialization.

One poignant example illustrates the profound impact of this initiative. Garrett shared the story of a student who chose Virtual School to care for a grandparent but harbored a desire to play football. Through this work, he now has the opportunity to pursue his passion while fulfilling responsibilities at home—a testament to the transformative power of sports in the lives of young individuals.

Brown elaborated on the journey to make this all possible, and highlighted the hurdles that Virtual School students still have to navigate to join the sports programs at their base schools. 

“We applied for the Virtual School to become members of TSSAA. Once they were a member, we had two choices. They could have their own sports teams at Virtual School or get to have them play at their base schools,” he said. “So we decided to go the route of them playing at their base schools, and now these student-athletes have the opportunity to try out.”

TSSAA transfer rules still apply for any student wishing to try out for a sport at their base school, as a move to the Virtual School is considered a transfer, and the KCS Athletic department is ready to help families navigate eligibility rules.  

Looking ahead, the impact of this initiative extends beyond the realm of sports. It fosters a sense of belonging and community for these students, bridging the gap between virtual and traditional schooling experiences. 

As Garrett noted, the increased social events and engagement initiatives have led to a resurgence in interest in virtual schooling, further solidifying its place as a viable educational option for students with diverse needs and circumstances.