By: Kathryn Hodgins, Content and Public Relations Specialist, Florida Virtual School

Florida Virtual School (FLVS) senior Breanna B. recently became the first student to successfully complete all three courses within the Principles of Teaching Program of Study, a progression of career and technical education courses that create accessible pathways to gain the skills and certifications needed for college and career success. And, she’s not stopping there! With an industry certification in her sights and college just a few months away, Breanna hopes to make a significant impact as a future teacher.

Seizing Educational Opportunities

Breanna, a senior who attends an in-person private school, has been an FLVS Flex student since the sixth grade to supplement her learning. Reflecting on her journey, she marvels at how FLVS ignited her passion for learning through a diverse array of classes and unique opportunities.

As an FLVS Flex student, Breanna dove into courses and electives not offered at her private school. From Environmental Science with the legendary Guy Harvey, to the artsy realm of Creative Photography, Life Management Skills, and even Driver Education, she’s explored her passions and interests. 

According to Breanna, “I’m practically the FLVS ambassador among my friends because I love the variety of classes and the flexibility it offers, which lets me juggle school, family, and friends seamlessly.”

Discovering Her Passion for Teaching and Learning

It was this variety of FLVS courses, including career and technical education (CTE), that paved the way for Breanna to venture into the Principles of Teaching Program of Study. According to Breanna, while everyone tackles core classes, CTE courses inject a burst of enthusiasm into learning by aligning with students’ passions. 

“It’s the diversity that makes CTE courses stand out; they rekindle focus, motivation, and a genuine love for learning,” she enthusiastically shared.

Fueling her love of learning, Breanna navigated through the three courses, with her favorite being the second course in the program of study, Human Growth and Development (for future educators). In the course she delved into the intricacies of both the mental and physical development of children, uncovering the pathways for them to reach their full potential.

The program’s unique feature of incorporating observation teaching hours proved instrumental for Breanna. Not only did it give her the opportunity to observe teachers already working in the field, but it also allowed her to apply these experiences to her coursework.

As a hands-on learner, Breanna discovered that online classes empowered her to take control of her education. Breaking down information step-by-step was a game-changer for absorbing material effectively. 

Breanna shared, “These classes helped me embrace my learning style fully. They taught me how to tailor my teaching approach for different learners or abilities, leading to a deeper understanding of myself and ultimately making me a better student.” The journey of self-discovery intertwined with educational exploration has truly set Breanna on the path to becoming a well-rounded and adaptable teacher.

The Heart of Education

Eagerly anticipating her role as a future teacher, Breanna places education at the forefront of her priorities. Ensuring students are safe and equipped with the confidence to achieve greatness is her passion. Reflecting on her own journey, Breanna draws inspiration from the teachers who played a pivotal role in helping her. Their guidance and encouragement instilled in her the belief that she could strive for excellence. Now, fueled by gratitude, she aspires to pay it forward.

“My inspiration came from my teachers, helping me reach my full potential and showing me that I can do whatever I put my mind to. I want to be able to do that for someone else.”

Mrs. Morell, one of Breanna’s teachers, shares that Breanna has a true passion for teaching. “She already has amazing ideas for future lessons and is an extremely diligent and focused learner,” said Mrs. Morell. 

With dreams set on making a positive impact, Breanna envisions herself contributing to the next generation’s growth and development. As she sets her sights on a teaching career, she hopes to one day come back and teach at Florida Virtual School to inspire students how she was inspired.

Check out our CTE page for more information about our other Programs of Study, including Agriculture Communications, Allied Health Assisting, Applied Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence Foundations, Computer Science Principles, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Principles of Teaching, Web Application Development, and Programming.

About the author: Katie Hodgins brings her wealth of experience and passion to the FLVS team, assuming the role of Content and Public Relations Specialist. A military veteran and lifelong learner, Katie enjoys communicating unique and innovative stories about people, places, and opportunities to inspire and engage the next generation. Having traveled throughout the world, she is excited to plant roots here in Florida and with Florida Virtual School.