GULFPORT

VIRTUAL
ACADEMY
Part 1 - The Purpose of Virtual
Education

Wondering why virtual learning should be

an option in your district? The more paths'
Education is not a one size fits all students have, the more
approach to learning. Some students
need the structure provided by a brick- likely they are to find
and-mortar traditional setting, but others
could thrive with the flexibility and one that works for
personalized nature of virtual learning.
them.
 THE PERCEPTION
When people think of virtual learning they
think of a response to COVID. A time
when teachers were thrust into a unique
teaching experience, without ample
notification and/or training. It was largely
a disaster for the administration, staff,
students, and parents. For many, this was
not the most enjoyable experience
Be different, on purpose, for a
purpose
CHRISTOPHER
SALBER
christopher.salber@gulfportschools.org
https://mrsalberteaching.weebly.com/
WHAT VIRTUAL
LEARNING IS
It serves a need
Some students thrived in a virtual
environment. They found they can control
the pace of their education and work
faster, or go back and try again at a
concept they missed. They can minimize
distractions and work on their own
schedule.
It provides options
Each student in our program has their
own story. Some are fantastic, such as an
Olympic hopeful trying to keep up with
their studies. Some are admirable, such as
the student trying to help provide for the
family, so they hold a full-time job and
stay in school. Some are dealing with
adversity, tragedy, or life changes but
want to graduate. A majority of our
students are suffering from anxiety,
depression, and/or bullying and just want
a place where they feel safe. Our program
fulfills a variety of needs.