By: Hailey Lawson, Communications Specialist, Florida Virtual School

Florida Virtual Full Time Public School principals (from left): Sheri Sico (middle school), Ryan Foster (elementary school), and Suzanna Pacheco (high school).

Meet the principals who lead Florida Virtual Full Time Public Schools (FLVS Full Time).

These principals lead a team of more than 500 teachers and staff across the state. They serve nearly 10,000 students and families each year, including welcoming more than 3,200 new students last year alone. They play a key role in student success, overseeing school operations, supporting teachers, and guiding students and families throughout the school year.

Under their guidance, FLVS Full Time has reached incredible milestones in recent years:

• More than 107,000 successful course and credit completions during the 2025-26 school year.
• Middle and high school acceleration increased by 12 percent over last year.
• A 98% overall family satisfaction rate, with families citing strong teaching, consistent communication, and flexible learning.
• Recognition as a Purple Star School District, with each school designated a Purple Star School of Distinction for supporting military-connected families.

As the new school year begins, FLVS Full Time principals are ready to support, connect, and inspire students every step of the way. With a shared commitment to student success and strong partnerships with families, they are helping create a community where every student has the opportunity to grow and thrive.

Ryan Foster, Principal, Florida Virtual Elementary School

Ryan Foster, principal of Florida Virtual Elementary School, began his education career in 2005 and joined Florida Virtual School (FLVS) in 2018. Foster, of Lakeland, holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University and a master’s degree in education administration from the University of South Florida.

Foster grew up in a family closely connected to public education. His father served on the local school board, and Foster said that early exposure to school communities influenced his decision to pursue a career in teaching and later school leadership. Since joining FLVS, Foster said he has continued to grow as an educator and values the partnership between families and the school in the virtual environment.

“The families we serve are just so connected to the work,” he said. “They come to us wanting a different path and a different start, and we have the opportunity to partner with them in a meaningful way.”

Foster said watching students gain confidence and find success is one of the most rewarding parts of his role. He noted that families often describe virtual learning as an opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to build new routines.

Outside of school, Foster grew up in rural Indiana and participated in 4‑H, showing animals such as cows and rabbits. He said those experiences helped shape his work ethic and leadership style.

Looking ahead to the new school year, Foster encourages students to begin with a plan and give themselves grace as they adjust to new expectations. He advises families to stay involved, maintain regular communication with teachers, and monitor progress consistently. For students seeking connection, Foster recommends participating in live lessons, attending meetups and field trips when possible, and joining virtual enrichment activities throughout the year.

“There will be challenges, for sure,” he said. “But that positive attitude will help families push through and stay focused on their goals.”

Foster said he welcomes ongoing communication with students and families and looks forward to connecting throughout the year.

Sheri Sico, Principal, Florida Virtual Middle School

Sheri Sico, principal of Florida Virtual Middle School, comes from a long line of educators and says that background continues to shape her work supporting students and families at FLVS. Her parents both worked at her high school, and her sister later became a teacher, a path Sico also chose before joining Florida Virtual School.

Sico, who is from Orlando, began her career in education as a teacher in 2003 and joined the FLVS team in 2018. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Central Florida and a master’s degree in education administration from Grand Canyon University.

She said one of the most meaningful parts of her role at FLVS Full Time is hearing students’ stories and watching them gain confidence as they progress through their courses.

“I love hearing where they’ve been and seeing how our school becomes a meaningful part of their path forward,” she said. “Watching students grow, gain confidence, and find success is incredibly rewarding.”

Outside of school, Sico said she hopes to try skydiving one day and has long enjoyed math for its problem‑solving structure. Looking ahead to the new year, she said she is especially eager to connect with students in real time.

“There’s something special about interacting in real time, building relationships, seeing students engage and creating meaningful learning moments together,” she said.

Sico encourages students to stay engaged, ask for help when needed, and complete the school’s onboarding course early in the year to become familiar with the platform. She also recommends that families stay involved, monitor progress, and maintain regular communication with teachers.

Suzanna Pacheco, Principal, Florida Virtual High School

Suzanna Pacheco, principal of Florida Virtual High School, said she is motivated by the moments when students recognize their ability to succeed, particularly after overcoming challenges. She began her education career in 2001 as a teacher in Orlando and joined Florida Virtual School (FLVS) in 2021. Pacheco was recently named the district’s 2026 Principal of the Year.

Pacheco said she was drawn to FLVS because the virtual model allows the school to meet students where they are while maintaining strong support and high expectations. She noted that seeing students thrive in a nontraditional environment and building partnerships with families are among the most meaningful parts of her role.

“Watching students grow in confidence and independence, while being part of a community that values both support and accountability, is incredibly meaningful,” she said.

Outside of school, Pacheco said she tries to keep perspective by finding humor in everyday moments. She also enjoys reading and exploring different viewpoints, which she said helps her better understand others’ experiences.

Looking ahead to the new school year, Pacheco said she is focused on strengthening student outcomes, supporting teachers, and bringing the theme “Firebirds Glow Beyond Limits” to life. She encourages students to stay consistent, set manageable goals, and seek help early when needed.

“Stay connected with your teachers, ask for help early, and remember that progress builds over time,” she said.

Her advice for families includes creating structure while encouraging independence, maintaining regular communication with teachers, and celebrating growth throughout the year. She said strong partnerships between home and school play an important role in student success.

Pacheco holds a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from Louisiana State University and a master’s degree in education administration from the American College of Education.