Wonderful educational experience for students and a job I love!
Pros
Florida Virtual School really does put students first in every decision they make. FLVS doesn't let students slip through the cracks. Our students don't have to worry about 6am wake-ups, buses, fighting in the public schools, or students who can't make it to their high school due to hospital stays, prison, work, or sports competitions. Students can work at their own pace. They can take more time to adsorb information when needed or fly through content they have already mastered. I am able to build personal relationships with my students and their families instead of trying to manage 35 students in a classroom at one time. Students receive personalized instruction and really own their educational experience. I love talking with my students over the phone and hearing what they think abou the content. Another highlight of my job is watching students interact with each other through collaborative projects and online live instructions. Students are able to build relationships with their classmates and even join extracurricular clubs. I love my job!! It gives the the flexibility to work from home, pick up my kids from pre-school, and meet the needs of my family. FLVS provides excellent professional development and opportunities for advancement. The health benefits and pay are better than any other school district in the state of Florida.
Cons
Teaching at FLVS is a niche job. FLVS is a leader in online education and makes changes frequently to stay ahead of the competition. Teachers must be flexible and willing to think outside the traditional school box. There are times when I work at night or on the weekends to provide my students the service they need (but I can take a breaks in the middle of the week to do laundry, go the gym, etc). If you are super organized, laid back, and truly have students' best interest at heart, than this job is for you.
