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

Online learning at Florida Virtual School (FLVS) doesn’t just offer flexibility; it opens the door to meaningful connections and lifelong friendships. For Florida Virtual Middle School (FVMS) students like Chloe Joles, Rylee Cappuccilli, and Delicia Self, virtual classrooms became the starting point for a bond that grew stronger through shared classes, group chats, and fun in-person meetups.

The trio first connected in fifth grade, but seventh grade was the turning point. “We ended up in the same classes and just clicked,” Chloe said. “Thanks to our teachers, we were able to chat before and after class, and that’s how our friendship grew, and we became the bestest of friends.”

Friendship Beyond the Screen

Building friendships in an online school environment takes creativity and effort. FLVS students often rely on live lessons, chat boxes, and school events to connect. “Show up in class, participate, hype people up, and be open to connecting,” Delicia advised. “FLVS clubs are super helpful too because you’ll always find someone who vibes with you.”

The group eventually created a group chat where they share updates and plan meetups. “We talk all the time,” Delicia said. “It’s like our own little family.”

From Virtual to Reality: The Solar Bears STEM Event

Video calls and group chats keep everyone connected in meaningful ways, and in-person meetings add an extra layer of connection. That’s why the recent Solar Bears STEM Day was so special. The event combined hockey with science experiments and interactive learning, giving FLVS students a chance to bond beyond the screen. During the event, a section was designated specifically for FLVS students and their families, making it enjoyable to watch hockey and socialize with friends. 

“My favorite part was hands down getting to see my friends in person,” Delicia said. “We’re all spread out, Chloe’s five hours away, Rylee is three hours, and I’m an hour and a half, so being together face-to-face was super special.”

Chloe, a hockey fan, loved the game and the science demonstrations. “Seeing my friends in person is so much different than class or on a video call,” she said. “I can hug them and just see them face to face.”

Rylee added, “There were so many memories made, and because we don’t see each other often, the memories feel more special.”

Tips for Making Friends Online

The girls shared their best advice for other FLVS students looking to build friendships:

• Participate actively in class. Don’t be afraid to speak up; just being supportive can make a person tons of friends.
• Join clubs and events. Clubs are super helpful, Delicia noted. While Chloe mentioned that Friends Corner is a great way to meet new friends. 
• Be open to change. Don’t be afraid of change; even if classes are split, you can still stay connected.

Why These Connections Matter

FLVS offers flexibility and freedom, providing unique opportunities for students to connect through virtual classes, clubs, and exciting in-person events. That’s why events like the Solar Bears STEM Day and the annual end-of-year trips to places like SeaWorld and Islands of Adventure are so important. They give students a chance to turn online friendships into real-life memories.

As Delicia summed it up: “Learning with FLVS is great, and there’s always a way to meet people and build friendships. I really appreciate all the meetups and events they give us. The Solar Bears event was the perfect example: fun, educational, and the best part? Experiencing it with friends I’ve made over the years.”

Want to learn more about the online and in-person events hosted by FLVS? Check out our Online and In-person Social Life webpage.