To kick off the spring, more than 1,200 Arizona Virtual Academy and Insight Academy of Arizona students and their family members came together at the newly renovated and expanded Red Mountain Park in Mesa to take part in the schools’ combined Family Fun Day, which focuses on enrichment, socialization, face-to-face teacher interaction and fun for students from kindergarten to 12th grade.
“This year, we were extremely proud to welcome our career and technical education students, who helped showcase our programs to fellow
Veterinary Science teacher Jessica Berger and ISAZ student Linda Hernandez check out a slithery special guest at Family Fun Day.
students, including an airplane simulator. Among the many highlights was Insight Academy student and entrepreneur Linda Hernandez, who hosted her own booth to display her Etsy merchandise and sharpen her entrepreneurial, public speaking and sales skills,” said Jennifer Wodrich, community engagement specialist for both Arizona Virtual Academy and Insight Academy of Arizona.
During the event, families engaged in a series of interactive adventures together, notably an obstacle course and relay race. They also joined their teachers in creating hands-on craft projects and music, with pizza and other refreshments available throughout the event.
“People often think tuition-free virtual public schools like ours are strictly online, but we host a series of events like this one, as well as field trips, picnics, volunteer and philanthropic activities and other social gatherings. The schools both also offer dozens of clubs to help our students connect with others and build friendships that could last a lifetime,” said Wodrich.
According to Wodrich, bringing students and families together in person highlights Arizona Virtual Academy and Insight Academy of Arizona’s commitment to supporting whole-child learning beyond the virtual classroom. The goal is to help students thrive academically, socially and personally.
“We believe in a balanced approach toward education. Computers help us provide students with effective assessment, planning and time-management tools. They also serve as powerful teaching aids that motivate, stimulate and inform children about the world around them,” said Wodrich. “Most students arrive already tech-savvy, and this model builds on that to prepare them for higher education and today’s technology-driven workforce. We use a unique multimedia approach that includes traditional books, workbooks and instructional materials and balance screen time with hands-on enrichment like this event.”
For more information, visit https://go.k12.com/.
