Caitie Gray
School Counselor
Bachelor of Applied Science, Supervision and Management, Florida State College at Jacksonville; Master of Education, School Counseling, University of North Florida
Caitie Gray became a teacher in 2010, a school counselor in 2019, and joined Coastal Connections Academy as a counselor in 2021. She works with students in grades K–5.
Why She Became an Educator
According to Ms. Gray, “I became a school counselor to help students figure out what they want to do after high school. More recently, my ‘why’ has evolved to include helping students be the best version of themselves.”
The Online School Experience at Coastal Connections Academy
“My favorite classroom activity has always been ‘getting to know you’ activities,” reports Ms. Gray. “It’s always fun to learn what makes each student unique!
“The most rewarding part of what I do is teaching lessons — to a whole group, small group, or individual — then have a teacher or parent recognize the positive changes they see in a student who is grasping the concepts I’ve taught and implementing them in their daily life.”
“An education at this school [teaches kids] to hold themselves accountable for their own success.”
— Ms. Gray
Message for Families Considering Online School
“I tell all my [new] parents to give themselves grace,” says Ms. Gray. “Learning the [online] platform takes a little bit, but they will get it and be so grateful for the freedom the virtual setting allows.
“An education at Coastal Connections Academy helps students hone various skills for independence. They get plenty of practice in creating a schedule that works for them to make sure their schoolwork is turned on time.”
Personal Interests
Reports Ms. Gray, “I have two very active boys and a high-energy husband. We are always out exploring and love to travel. Our top place to explore is beaches since we love to surf and swim.”