Ethan Marshall, a high school senior with a learning disability and ADHD, turned an Easterseals summer internship into a part-time job at Piggly Wiggly, gaining confidence, job skills, and independence. His journey is part of a full-circle family story—his father also benefited from Alabama’s vocational services years ago. Now, Ethan is set to graduate from Alabama Virtual Academy and continues thriving thanks to Easterseals of the Birmingham Area, whose programs empower people with disabilities across all ages through job training, therapy, and more.
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How a Virtual Colorado Senior Is Preparing for Liftoff
At just 17, Monique—a senior at Colorado Preparatory Academy—is earning her associate degree, holds a pilot’s license, and leads her school’s FBLA club. She’s attended elite space camps, earned heavy machinery certification, and plans to add a diving certification as she works toward becoming an astronaut. From mock trial awards in D.C. to managing projects for her family’s business, Monique’s packed schedule is powered by online learning that fits her ambitions and her family’s needs. For her, the sky isn’t the limit—it’s just the beginning.
After Epilepsy Diagnosis, Valedictorian Graduates With 33 College Credits
At just 13, Zoe O’Hearn began college courses while attending Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy. Months later, she was diagnosed with epilepsy, facing unpredictable seizures and emotional challenges. Despite this, Zoe stayed focused on her education, earning 33 college credits and graduating high school at 16. Creative writing, music, and art became her outlet. This fall, she’ll attend Oklahoma Christian University, majoring in gaming and animation—proving resilience and creativity can thrive even through adversity.
Alabama Virtual Academy Graduates a Record Number of Students as Growth Continues
The Alabama Virtual Academy graduated its largest class yet—256 students—during a May 15 ceremony in Montgomery. The online public school, serving grades 8–12 since 2015, has grown to around 7,000 students, gaining over 1,500 in the past year. Valedictorian Evan Willey earned both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree, crediting the academy’s flexibility. He plans to study engineering at the University of Alabama and finish in three years.