Expert Advice from 2026 FLVS Teacher of the Year Karla Cheas

2026 Teacher of the Year Karla Cheas in her home office. 

Meet Karla Cheas, the 2026 Teacher of the Year for Florida Virtual School (FLVS). As a former FLVS student, she brings a unique and firsthand perspective to her role as a virtual teacher. Since graduating from University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's degree in 2014, Cheas has interned at FLVS and held multiple roles allowing her to grow and find her passion as a Computer Science Elementary teacher.

Learn more about her insights on a virtual classroom environment, growing in the role of an educator, and more in this fun Q-and-A. 

We chatted with Cheas about her experience as a career-long virtual teacher.

Me: What’s the most important advice you would give new teachers?

Cheas: Know your students. Get familiar with their interests, strengths, and areas for growth - this is so important. Show them you care about them as individuals, not just as students. Be prepared to individualize learning opportunities to fit the interests and learning styles of the student you’re working with. 

Me: How can you create a positive virtual classroom environment?

Cheas: A positive virtual school environment starts with strong relationships. The more your students hear from you, the more familiar and comfortable they’ll feel. Getting to know them can be just as important as them getting to know you. Be consistent in your communications with your students and don’t be afraid to be yourself. Let your personality shine in your conversations and have fun with your students. Take time to celebrate their successes, both big and small, and provide constructive feedback to help students grow. When you foster a culture of kindness, collaboration, and belonging, you can create an environment where students feel supported and motivated to do their best.

Me: How can teachers continue to grow throughout their careers?

Cheas: Attend professional development opportunities, join teaching networks, and seek out mentors who can offer guidance and support. Be willing to evolve and individualize your teaching strategies to fit the needs of your students. Teaching involves lifelong learning, it’s ever-changing. Stay curious and open to new ideas and practices.

Me: What role does collaboration play in teaching?

Cheas: At FLVS there is a strong professional community that allows for a sense of camaraderie. You know that there will always be support when challenges arise. Don’t be afraid to seek advice and feedback. Be willing to also offer your support in return. Share your resources, ideas, and experiences with your fellow teachers. This kind of community can be pivotal to your success as a teacher. 

Me: Any final words of advice for new teachers?

Cheas: Here at FLVS, our commitment is to have the student at the center of every decision we make. This is not just a motto; it’s a guiding principle. As a virtual teacher, you have the unique opportunity to shape your classroom environment to foster student success. Embrace this empowerment by truly getting to know your students, their needs, and their goals, so that you can set goals and make decisions that best support them. By focusing on your student’s individual needs and personalizing every interaction and communication, you will find that all other aspects of teaching virtually align naturally. 

Teachers have the power to shape the future and make a lasting impact for generations to come. Embrace this journey with an open heart and curious mind. Here’s to an adventure filled with learning, growth, and endless possibilities. 

To learn more about Florida Virtual School or to join a team that works to make a difference, visit flvs.net/careers.

About the author: Kayle Gattuso is a Talent Acquisitions Marketing Specialist for FLVS and FlexPoint, dedicated to bringing in the best team members to support the experience of our students and families.