Virtual school students love their educators! Out of 565 nominations Kayla Oyon from Tennessee Virtual Academy was selected to be featured on our blog for #TeacherAppreciationWeek 2023. Thank you Kayla and all teachers for inspiring and believing in children every day!

This is what Kayla's student had to say about her:

Mrs. Kayla Oyon is my first grade teacher at TNVA. She has made a positive impact on me this year by encouraging me to do my best and challenging me to do higher math and reading. She was able to see my need for more challenging work because of my giftedness. I feel like I have grown a lot year socially and academically. Thanks to Mrs. O, I’m prepared for second grade and beyond.

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Where do you teach?

‍Tennessee Virtual Academy

How long have you been teaching?

I have been teaching for about 14 years. I have taught pre-k-3^rd grade students.

What inspired you to pursue a career in teaching?  

I have always had a passion for teaching from a very young age.  My love for teaching was mainly inspired by my granny.  She always told us “always focus on your education because that is something no one can ever take away from you”.  That has stuck with me.  I want to educate children and make sure they have the knowledge that no one can take away.

What is the most memorable moment in your teaching career?

Honestly, I don’t know that there is just one moment.  Over the years, there have been several students in my classrooms.  Students from all different backgrounds, races, religions, and upbringings.  This has made me re-think my teaching strategy.  I always think about what a student might need, that might not be a standard in the curriculum.  Maybe they need a listening ear, they might need a challenge, or they just might need a hug.  Hearing students tell me “I love you Mrs. O”or “Thank you Mrs. O for all the help”, those are the things that are memorable to me.  

As an educator, what does the term “School Freedom” mean to you?

School freedom to me means having the freedom to choose a school that is the right fit for me and my students.  Working virtually at TNVA for the last 3 years has really opened my eyes to more school “freedom” that these parents and their children needed.  Some of my students might have health concerns, some are worried about their child’s safety at school, and others just needed a change of “traditional” school.  TNVA has allowed me to “enter” the homes of these students and really allow them and their parents to be part of their educational journey.

What is the #1 advice you give your students?

ALWAYS try your best.  They know even if they get it wrong, I will know they tried their best.

What have your students taught you?

Oh man, this is a tough one to answer.  My students have taught me so much throughout the years. They have taught me that we all learn differently and there is nothing wrong with that.  They have showed me that education doesn’t look the same for all of us.  They have showed me that its okay to make mistakes because that is how we learn.  They have also showed me how to be the very best version of myself with them!

What would you be doing if you weren’t a teacher?

I always say if I wasn’t a teacher I would be an accountant because I love numbers, but honestly I know I would get bored.  I would miss the kids.  So, if I wasn’t a teacher I would probably still be doing something with kids.

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Lightning Round

Favorite book: “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”-I know it’s a kids book, but man it is still one of my favorites after all these years.

Favorite quote: “What you do matters, and how you do it matters.”  

Favorite movie: I will always be that hopeless romantic who loves “A Walk to Remember”

Favorite hobby: Photography, spending time with my family, crafting

Coffee/Tea: Neither, I’m a Dr Pepper girl.

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Want to share your story? The world needs to hear it! Email jessica@publicschooloptions.org to be featured on our blog and social media channels!