Image of Diane Tabor

Diane T.

Learning Coach

Diane serves as Learning Coach to her high school son, Carson, who started attending Georgia Connections Academy when it became clear that his educational needs would be better met by an online school rather than a traditional one. 

Why We Chose Georgia Connections Academy

We learned about this school as Carson was completing tenth grade via Zoom at his brick-and-mortar high school. As the students were going to transition back to in-person learning for the following school year, we realized what a benefit it was to have Carson remain at home and attend school online. Due to some learning challenges, he benefited by having a Learning Coach nearby who could keep him on task, explain concepts he had trouble understanding, and help him keep his day organized.

Changing schools was the best thing we could have done for Carson. It was clear he needed more one-on-one time with teachers. And, he’s getting wonderful extra therapies implemented into his schedule with a great speech therapist and occupational therapist provided by Georgia Connections Academy. 

Diane Tabor taking a selfie with her son, who attends Georgia Connections Academy

Our Online School Experience

It’s been very easy to connect with Carson’s teachers, who send me regular emails about what’s happening in class. Whenever we have questions, our emails are always answered promptly. The teachers have even given us their phone numbers. 

We’ve done many field trips to places such as the Georgia Aquarium, College Football Hall of Fame, Cochran Mills Nature Center, and the Shakespeare Theatre. Outside of school, Carson is busy with piano lessons, a local book club, a competitive cheerleading team, and other activities. 

This school helps Carson prepare for his future by encouraging him to discover his interests and things he’s good at, and through occupational surveys and hands-on visits to potential employers. 

“No matter what question I had, all I needed to do was reach out. Don’t think you have to learn everything as a Learning Coach in one day!” 

—  Diane Tabor

Advice for New and Prospective Families

The best advice I have for new families and those thinking of enrolling here is to be kind to yourself. Give yourself time to learn the software, how to help your child upload things, and how to plan your day. It seemed like there was so much for me to learn to be helpful to my student. When I stopped to breathe, I realized there were so many people available to help me.