Tara Carr
School Leader
Bachelor of Science, Communication, Florida State University; Master of Science, Education and Leadership, University of West Florida; Master of Arts, English and Creative Writing, Southern New Hampshire University, Ed.D, Northcentral University
Tara Carr is Coastal Connections Academy School Leader. She has over 20 years of experience in education and joined Connections Academy in 2014. Ms. Carr shares more below!
Why I Became an Educator
I love working with our students and families. Some families have been with virtual schools for many years and others are new to this method of learning. It is a joy to support teachers and watch them develop into wonderful educators who welcome families and help them through the transition from brick and mortar to virtual education. Seeing students grow and become successful, meeting them where their needs are, is very rewarding.
My greatest joy is seeing individuals achieve their greatest potential. This holds true for both faculty and staff, as well as students. I think humans are meant to be challenged, continuously growing, and learning in life. I feel immense pride watching this occur in all individuals.
The Online School Experience at Coastal Connections Academy
I believe that creating a welcoming community is a team effort. Our administration team, teachers, and office staff work well together ensuring families are supported. Successful virtual experiences come with collaboration from caretakers, students, and school staff with a like-minded focus on student achievement. All students can learn, but as educators we must find ways to ensure this happens. Working as a united team not only provides a welcoming community for our families, but also creates a positive working environment for our staff as well.
Coastal Connections Academy has a robust and challenging curriculum, but also wonderful teachers that support our students both cognitively and emotionally. As our teachers provide support, they also project excitement and positivity, which encourages students to reciprocate those feelings as well. With help from our wonderful counseling team, they play a pivotal role in career planning and readiness, whether that prepares students for graduation then college, military, trade schools, the workforce, or other opportunities they pursue.
"Because this environment is one that is collaborative, we can really connect with families and get a full understanding of our students and families as a whole. This gives us the ability to meet students where their individual needs are."
— Ms. Carr
My Interests
I have two wonderful sons whom I enjoy spending time with. My hobbies include reading, music, paddleboarding, participating in outdoor activities, and traveling.