In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, iQ Academy California–Los Angeles, a fully online K–12 public charter school with 172 staff and over 2,200 students, is in the spotlight. After COVID, teacher Mariann Papadopoulos found her passion for virtual teaching there. Students like Ajaylaa Brown thrive in this flexible, supportive setting, crediting teachers like Papadopoulos for helping them succeed in a quieter, more focused learning environment.
Safaa Haizoun, from Fairfax County, wanted to try something she’s never done before while competing in a cooking competition. News4’s Jessica Albert reports.
Indiana Gateway Digital Academy and Indiana Gateway Alternative School celebrated more than 500 graduates during their 2026 commencement ceremony. Valedictorian Jazlyn Deane led a class of students who balanced academics with responsibilities such as full-time work, caregiving, health challenges, and personal pursuits. For many graduates, the ceremony marked the first time they met their classmates and teachers in person, highlighting the unique flexibility and community of online learning.
The flexible nature of online learning benefits students with busy schedules or health challenges.