FLVS Teacher with Multiple Sclerosis Supports and Inspires

Within Florida Virtual School (FLVS), where dedication and resilience are celebrated, stories of extraordinary individuals shine brightly. One such story is that of Teya Miller, a language arts teacher whose journey for the last six years with a severe form of multiple sclerosis (MS) hasn’t dimmed her commitment to making a difference.

Multiple sclerosis is a long-lasting (chronic) disease of the central nervous system that attacks the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, causing numbness, weakness, headaches, and balance issues, which can significantly impact daily activities like walking and writing.

Despite the challenges posed by her condition, she continues to inspire and uplift her middle school students, demonstrating the profound impact of perseverance.

Miller brings 15 years of teaching experience, and she draws inspiration from her mother, who was also a teacher. Teaching has always been her passion, a joy she has cherished since childhood when she would assist her mother with grading papers and creating classroom projects.

“Teaching in a traditional classroom would be impossible with my disability, but FLVS has allowed me to continue doing what I love: empowering students who face challenges to succeed,” said Miller, who joined FLVS in 2019. 

Despite facing significant physical challenges that now require her to use an electric wheelchair—having gone from riding a bike daily to being unable to go a couple of blocks without assistance in less than five years—her commitment to education remains unwavering. She develops resources to help students demonstrate their understanding, creates videos to guide them through assignments, and records audio for those who struggle with decoding. Her resilience and dedication continue to inspire both her students and team members.

“Teya is a passionate educator committed to helping students overcome the obstacles they face in language arts,” said her supervisor, Instructional Leader Anatasia Becvar. “Her empathy and creativity fuel her support as she develops and shares intervention resources and spends countless hours tutoring. Her dedication not only helps our struggling learners build skills and confidence but also makes her a treasured member of our team.”

In addition to her role as an educator, Miller is the co-leader of her local multiple sclerosis support group in the Tampa area for the last two years. This group provides resources, raises money, offers encouragement, and provides a sense of community for those living with multiple sclerosis.

Miller and her family at the Walk Multiple Sclerosis in Tampa in 2024.

Giving back to the community is a core value of FLVS, and Miller embodies this principle wholeheartedly. Despite her challenges, she is actively involved in supporting others with multiple sclerosis.  On Saturday, April 26, in honor of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, she will participate in Walk Multiple Sclerosis Tampa for the second year in a row. Even though she can no longer walk the course, she will use her wheelchair to complete the event. The event raises vital funds for research and support programs. This commitment to community service highlights her dedication and inspires her family and friends to join the cause and make a difference. Her active involvement in the community underscores the core value of giving back and fostering a supportive environment for all.

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: Mary Stevens, communications specialist and the student Newspaper Club sponsor at Florida Virtual School, is passionate about communications, driving cultural initiatives, and enhancing the overall team member experience.