Greetings from NCVPS!
We are excited to share our March Advisory Council Newsletter! Spring is upon us as we wind down a very successful 2023-2024 academic year. In this edition, you will find updates on our national contributions to the field of virtual learning, be introduced to our 2024 Teacher of the Year and our 2023-2024 Teacher Advisory Council, learn about district and school outreach updates, student achievements, staff accomplishments, and professional development opportunities.
We are delighted to announce that the State Board of Education has approved ESSER III state reserve funding for the upcoming NCVPS Summer 2024 semester. PSUs will be allotted enrollments, and students can enroll at no charge to the PSU. Please share with your stakeholder groups!
We look forward to seeing you at our next Advisory Council meeting on April 9, 2024. Your valuable input and guidance are essential in achieving our mission, promoting innovation, and ensuring that our programs meet the evolving needs of students, schools, districts, educators, and families. Please feel free to reach out to us, and we appreciate your continued advocacy and support.
With gratitude and appreciation,
Mia
State Board of Education Approves ESSER III Funding for Summer School 2024
At the March meeting, the State Board of Education approved $2,000,000 in ESSER III state reserve funding for NCVPS Summer School 2024. The funding will assist with offsetting the cost of student participation in summer school courses as part of DPI’s strategy for fostering student achievement and access to quality learning opportunities. Program enrollment will be equitably distributed based on a model of PSUs 6-12 ADM. Our summer school kicks off on June 25.
This remarkable opportunity offers students who might not typically have access to summer classes a chance to excel. Each summer, we witness a diverse range of students participating in our courses for various reasons. We are confident that this initiative will have a profoundly positive impact on North Carolina school communities. Learn more on our website.
NCVPS Spotlight in Local Publication
We were featured in a detailed article in the January and February 2024 editions of Triangle Family Magazine. Titled "Going Virtual - To School," the article offered an insightful comparison between public and private virtual schooling options available to students. It showcased NCVPS, highlighting insights from our Executive Director, Dr. Mia Murphy. Readers interested in exploring the full narrative can access it online. Print editions of the magazine were also distributed across various locations throughout the Triangle area, spreading the word about the flexible, high-quality educational opportunities NCVPS provides.
Meet Super Student Audrey A! Audrey writes, “I am a student who strives to do my best in everything I do. I always want to create quality products, pay attention to small details, and make connections to the world around me. I think that my parents guiding me through everyday life has shaped me to be who I am today. Something that makes me, me is that I dance, I play travel and school volleyball, and I am an attentive sister to my brother and sister. Taking Spanish 1 has given me more ownership of my learning, by creating a schedule to get assignments turned in and on time. It also has allowed me to get feedback on assignments from my teacher so I can be more successful.” - Audrey A.
Read more about Audrey on our Super Students page.
Meet Super Student Zaye M! Zaye writes,“Everything about online classes has been a surprise. I never dreamed that I would prefer it to actual in-person classes; the freedom to set my goals to my standards, the ability to see my growth online, and the opportunities for outreach programs where I can go out into the community and serve as needed. I enjoy opportunities to mentor other students in a private setting, where they are comfortable with me. I never dreamed that I would become my school’s ambassador and have the opportunity to sit at the School Board Forum where my voice was heard. Hopefully, I helped them realize that students like me, with my preferred learning style, can be just as successful as brick-and-mortar students.” – Zaye M.
Read more about Zaye on our Super Students page.
NCVPS Celebrates our 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year, Ann Spencer
We are proud to present Ann Spencer as the 2024-25 NCVPS Teacher of the Year. Ann has spent over 10 years teaching Blended Applied Science and working as an Instructional Leader for the course.
Ann grew up in Rocky Mount, North Carolina and attended North Carolina State University. After graduation she taught science for 12 years at Athens Drive High School in Raleigh, NC. While there, she was honored as the Wake County Outstanding Science Teacher (2004 NCSU Chapter Sigma Xi) and served as the Head Women’s Track & Field Coach.
When she is not working, she enjoys running, supporting collegiate sports (Go Wolfpack!), kayaking, spending time listening to live music with her husband, and camping with her three children.
Read more about Ann, and our TOY program on our TOY Program page.
Introducing the 2023-24 NCVPS Teacher Advisory Group
Please allow us to introduce our 2023-24 Teacher Advisory Group, a key component of our commitment to continual growth and improvement. This dedicated group plays a pivotal role in offering valuable insights and feedback from the perspective of our educators, ensuring that NCVPS remains at the forefront of online education.
Comprised of a dynamic cross-section of our teaching staff, the Teacher Advisory Group symbolizes the variety of expertise and experience within NCVPS. Meetings are held synchronously twice each academic year, during the fall and spring, facilitating meaningful discussions on a range of important topics and initiatives.
The group includes 10-15 members, featuring not only the current NCVPS Teacher of the Year but also the recipient from the preceding year, fostering a bridge of excellence and continuity. Membership in the advisory group spans one academic year, allowing for fresh perspectives and ideas to continually emerge.
NCVPS Staff Contribute to "Co-Teaching in Teacher Education: Centering Equity"
NCVPS is excited to share the contributions of staff members Dr. Rachel McBroom, Dr. Thomas Cooper, III, and Dr. Geetanjali Soni in the recent publication, "Co-Teaching in Teacher Education: Centering Equity." Their chapter, "Bridging Gaps: The Opportunities Through Online Co-Teaching Experiences," discusses the significant role of online co-teaching in providing equitable access to diverse courses and quality teaching for K-12 students. It also examines the advantages for both new and experienced teachers, alongside educator preparation candidates. This work highlights the impact of collaborative online teaching methods in achieving inclusive and high-standard education.
Dr. Lashaundon Perkins Named a BetterNC Fellow for 2024
NCVPS School Support Consultant Dr. Lashaundon Perkins has been selected as a BetterNC Fellow for the year 2024. This fellowship is dedicated to empowering community leaders to use public budgets as a means to foster equitable outcomes, aligning investments with community priorities.
Throughout the fellowship, Dr. Perkins will collaborate closely with the NC Budget & Tax Center and NC Black Alliance in both virtual and in-person settings. This program aims to foster connections across communities, delve into budget processes to uncover opportunities and pinpoint ways in which public funding can address community needs or priorities.
We extend our congratulations to Dr. Perkins on this prestigious recognition and look forward to the positive impact her work will bring to our communities.
NCVPS Strategic Planning and Professional Development Days
On March 12th and 13th, the NCVPS team convened in Raleigh for face-to-face staff meetings. Highlights included a live demonstration of the soon-to-be-launched Student Information System, Infinite Campus, alongside the rollout of a new Helpdesk system, marking significant strides in our technological toolkit.
Our Curriculum Team took the lead on a comprehensive workshop aimed at crafting effective learning modules, enriching our understanding of the course design process. Beyond the intensive learning sessions, we prioritized moments of fun and connection, engaging in team-building activities devised by our Office Staff. These exercises not only fostered camaraderie but also underscored the value of collective effort and morale.
The event culminated in a celebration of long-term commitment, awarding "Decade of Dedication" honors to Dr. Mia Murphy and Jen Goldenbaum in recognition of their 10 years of service to NCVPS.
NCVPS presents at FETC and ATIA Conferences
Dr. Chris Smith and Dr. Thomas Cooper, III represented NCVPS at two significant conferences focused on educational technology and accessibility. They presented sessions on enhancing accessibility in virtual learning environments at the Future of Educational Technology Conference (FETC) held from January 22-25 and at the Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference (ATIA) from January 24-27, both in Orlando, Florida. These presentations underline NCVPS's dedication to making online education accessible and inclusive for all students.
NCVPS Shines at DLAC Conference in Austin, TX
Last month, NCVPS staff made a significant impact at the Digital Learning Association conference (DLAC) in Austin, TX. DLAC, known for its unique focus on immersive learning and global networking, offered over 50 hours of sessions on digital instructional strategies.
NCVPS took the stage with several key presentations:
- "Unleash the Power of AI: Transform your School Communications," by Amber Parker.
- "Embark on a Journey of Professional Growth & Empowerment: Discover NCVPS Online Professional Development Experience," presented by Dr. Rachel McBroom, Dr. Geetanjali Soni, Dr. Thomas Cooper III, and our Teacher of the Year, Robert Leichner.
- "From Asynchronous to Synchronous: Pilot Planning for Promising and Purposeful Practices," by Dr. Mia Murphy.
Additionally, as the official NC DLAC Affiliate, NCVPS hosted the 2nd annual North Carolina Digital Learning Collaborator's Meetup. The event drew educators from across the state, fostering rich discussions and setting the stage for future collaboration opportunities within the NC DLC community.
NCVPS Staff Attend and Engage at NCTIES Conference in Raleigh
NCVPS team members were present at the NC Technology In Education (NCTIES) Conference, held in Raleigh from March 6-8. This event brought together educators and leaders to explore the integration of technology in enhancing education.
During the conference, Dr. Chris Smith facilitated "Daring to Soar: a DEI Lightning Talk Panel" on Thursday, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the educational landscape. Dr. Lashaundon Perkins presented "Empowering Virtual Schools in North Carolina: Sharing Insights and Addressing Educational Needs" on Friday, highlighting the role of virtual education in North Carolina.
Additionally, Dr. Smith serves on the NCTIES Board as the North Region Representative, contributing to the broader conversation on educational technology.
NCVPS at the NCASA Conference on Educational Leadership
NCVPS was a Gold Sponsor exhibitor at the North Carolina Association of School Administrators (NCASA) Conference on Educational Leadership, held in Wilmington, NC, from March 20th to 22nd. This conference catered to district and school leaders, offering unique engagement and learning opportunities from across the state.
The event featured prominent guest speakers, including Governor Roy Cooper and Moe Green, a candidate for NC State School Superintendent. A highlight of the conference was the unexpected visit from Mariah Lee, a former NCVPS student who is currently making strides in the UNC Charlotte Principalship Program.
Quality Matters Update
NCVPS continues to lead the nation in the highest number of courses certified by Quality Matters in K12. We have 85 courses certified with several courses up for recertification as well as a few new courses. Stay up to date by viewing our list of QM courses on the NCVPS website.
IworkNCVPS Sessions:
Please share the following sessions for students:
Thursday, April 18, 2024 • Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Drone Careers - Do you enjoy flying drones? Are you wondering how you can turn a hobby into a profession? If so, join us for a panel discussion with Denise Renfro, Director of the Academy of Green Technology at Douglas Byrd High School, and other professionals who work in the drone industry.
Where: IworkNCVPS Zoom • Flyer: Drone Careers
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 • Time: 5:00 – 6:00 PM
Virtual Healthcare - Are you curious about the future of healthcare, particularly virtual healthcare? Do you think you might pursue a career in a medical field? If so, join us for a discussion with Dr. Leslie Michel. She is a physician with MDLive with specialties in Internal Medicine and Neurology.
Where: IworkNCVPS Zoom • Flyer: Virtual Healthcare
Culture Cafe Sessions for Students:
See all of our archived sessions on the NCVPS Culture Cafe website. Please share the following sessions for students:
April 2, 2024 • Time 7-8:00 PM
Ninja - Join this Culture Cafe session and learn about the hidden world of Ninja. Presenter: Kayoko Green. Culture Café Zoom
April 8, 2024 • 6:30-7:30 PM
Machu Picchu: Exploring a World Wonder - Learn about the cultural significance of Machu Picchu, travel tips for anyone who wishes to visit Machu Picchu, and a brief history of the Incas. Presenter: Carrie Maravi. Culture Café Zoom
April 15, 2024 • 7-8:00 PM
Unexpected Russian Adventure - Join this Culture Cafe session to learn more about Russian culture, unusual Saint Petersburg, the real reason for the existence of dachas, and Russian summer houses. Presenter: Tanya Miller. Culture Café Zoom
April 16, 2024 • 7-8:00 PM
Japanese Culture - Learn about various Japanese culture topics. Presenters: Japanese National Honor Society Students and Revae Bostwick. Culture Café Zoom
Digital Transition Sessions for Educators
April 4, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Building Your Students' Self-Awareness in Virtual Courses. Presenter: Joanna Schimizzi. Target Audience: All Are Welcome! CEU Credit Type: General or Digital Learning
Register for April 4th at 6:30 PM
April 11, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
WORLD LANGUAGES: Leading with Culture in the Online
World Language Classroom. Presenter: Sarah Boutin. Target Audience: Japanese and World Language Teachers; All Are Welcome! CEU Credit Type: Japanese, General or Digital Learning.
Register for April 11th at 6:30 PM
April 18, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Building Your Students' Self-Management in Virtual Courses. Presenter: Joanna Schimizzi. Target Audience: All Are Welcome! CEU Credit Type: General or Digital Learning.
Register for April 18th at 6:30 PM
April 25, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Building Social Awareness in Science Virtual Courses. Presenter: Joanna Schimizzi. Target Audience: Science Teachers; All Are Welcome! CEU Credit Type: Science, General or Digital Learning.
