Carter Webb, a sixth grader at Ohio Virtual Academy, earned second place in the Stride K12 National Robotics Competition Championship. Competing with his teammate as “MechTech Mechanics,” Carter was among the youngest finalists. A self-taught coder, Carter’s love for problem-solving and robotics began with Minecraft and online tutorials. His coach praised his resilience and teamwork. Now in its third year, OHVA’s Robotics Club serves over 130 students, helping them build technical and life skills through coding and robotics challenges.
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Ohio Virtual Academy Teacher Creates Cardinal Cafe
Karen Bacon, a special education transition liaison at Ohio Virtual Academy, was named Best K–12 Teacher in the 2025 Tech Edvocate Awards for her innovation and leadership. She created the Cardinal Café, a virtual training environment where students practice workforce skills like interviewing, managing orders, and workplace etiquette. Since its launch, the program has expanded to other interactive simulations, helping students prepare for careers, college, or the military—all while keeping learning engaging and hands-on.
How One Teen Is Pursuing His Goal To Achieve Olympic Gold
Seventeen-year-old Quinn Derheimer is chasing his dream of competing in the 2030 Olympics as a short track speed skater. After starting in hockey at age five, he discovered speed skating and quickly fell in love with the sport. Quinn now trains weekly at the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee while attending Indiana Gateway Digital Academy online, allowing him to balance intense training with school. Nationally ranked and competing internationally, Quinn remains focused on steady progress toward his Olympic goal.