The world is changing, and naturally, students are too. For a variety of reasons, students might seek a more flexible learning environment.  

The Duquesne Virtual Academy offers an alternative to traditional, in-person instruction. Led by certified teachers from Duquesne and the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU), The Duquesne Virtual Academy is an asynchronous program that allows working families the opportunity to receive a quality education without compromising to the demands of their busy lives.  

The Virtual Academy is available for all students and meets all of Pennsylvania’s Core Standards. Students are provided devices through the district, ensuring each student has what they need.  

“Education is ever-changing. This generation is very technologically driven. Cyber school in general is on the rise,” said Caitlin Ohm, the Virtual Academy instructor. “More people are interested in that versatile education, being able to take their education to wherever they’ll be for the day and fitting it in their daily life. It’s different for everybody. I think that’s the key component, that it’s flexible to meet their needs.”

Ohm is in her 5th year as an instructor for the program. Ohm — in conjunction with Duquesne City School District and Virtual Academy principal Erica Slobodnik — heads the program. The program is offered through the AIU’s Accelerate Education learning management system.  

Most learning in the program is done through videos, modules, practice work, and assessments — all done in creative, engaging ways  

“Some of our students like this because it allows them to have their busy lives while fitting in school work in a way that makes sense for them. It allows them to work in the evenings if they need that parent support at home,” said Ohm. “It’s about being able to do things that are in your most comfortable environment.”  

Ohm does regular check-ins with students and parents, seeing how students are feeling and accessing how their education is going. With parents, Ohm provides crucial, detailed updates. Ohm offers regular office hours each day, where students and parents can check-in. In these moments, Ohm can provide direct instruction and assist as needed.  

“We work on being goal-oriented, whether it’s an educational goal or a personal goal,” said Ohm. “We also dive into their educational piece and see where they are in their courses and if they have anything to do. If they are behind on an assignment, we work to see how we can complete it and if they have any questions.”  

Building strong relationships with students and families is key, Ohm said. To that point, Ohm is easily accessible and solutions-oriented. With each interaction, Ohm is an active listener, always looking to see how she can best cater to her students’ learning needs.  

“Having that collaboration, rapport, and relationship with our families is key. We really do rely on them to help manage their schedules,” said Ohm.  

“About 90 percent of the time there is a parent at home during the check-in that gets on screen. I’m there on demand to answer any questions. I can help them right there instead of a more complicated back and forth. That’s a big benefit.”