Online iQ Academy graduates 1st class

Annie Nolan of iQ Academy Arizona writes about the school's graduation last week.

New technology and virtual education are providing opportunities for students that have truly changed traditional views on education.

No longer is a classroom confined within the four walls of a brick-and-mortar school building, today's classroom is on a laptop, accessible at any time in practically any location.

Brianna Vangelov of Mesa is one of the students taking advantage of this increasingly popular education option. She recently graduated from iQ Academy Arizona, a local online school offering high-quality, tuition-free classes for students in grades 6-12.

Vangelov, 18, was a part of iQ Academy Arizona's first graduating class, which marked its achievement in a ceremony at Tempe Center for the Arts on Saturday.

While students of the school attend classes online, accessing media-rich courses using a laptop provided by the school, the graduation ceremony in Tempe was just one of the many opportunities students had to meet each other face-to-face and participate in social events throughout the school year.

"Taking classes online really worked great for my lifestyle," Vangelov said. "I also liked being able to make friends from across the state. Everyone is part of a 'Pod,' which is basically a virtual homeroom, where we could talk, instant message, draw on a virtual chalkboard, share photos, etc. We also met each other in person at different events throughout the year, which were a lot of fun, such as graduation and an end of year party at Big Surf."

The online learning setting provides access to courses that may not otherwise be available in a traditional school setting - everything from Mandarin Chinese to video game design to virtual science labs. In addition, the flexibility of the online learning environment accommodates a wide range of students.

"Any student living in Arizona can take advantage of this online education option, including previously home-schooled students, athletes, performers and others with busy travel or work schedules, students with special needs and students seeking Advanced Placement courses or electives unavailable in their local school district," said Cindy Cook, school operations manager.

Students enrolled at iQ Academy participate in activities ranging from national rodeo competitions, nationally recognized fundraisers and designing clothing lines. Others are enrolled in iQ Academy while they battle illnesses, pursue family business ventures or travel the world on mission work.

"Whatever the reason for enrollment may be, iQ Academy is focused on providing Arizona students the opportunity to excel at their own pace while receiving a high-quality education," Cook said.

The school will host open houses throughout the state, where teachers, current students and their parents will be available to talk to prospective students and parents.

Information: Visit iqacademyaz.com or call 1-866-602-4729.