Tracie Ward
High School Teacher
Bachelor’s Degree, History, University of Arkansas
Tracie Ward started teaching in 2008 and joined Great Lakes Learning Academy in 2022. She teaches English to students in eleventh grade.
Why She Became a Teacher
According to Ms. Ward, “I wanted to become a teacher because I love kids … and wanted to be a mentor. … I love getting to know the students and their families. It has a different feel online because I think kids feel like they can be themselves.”
The Online Experience at Great Lakes Learning Academy
“I try to foster engagement by being present in their lives however they are comfortable, maybe through texting, live lessons, or just webmail,” says Ms. Ward. “Also, I like for students to get to know who I am so that it makes our relationship more authentic.”
What Parents Thinking of Enrolling Their Child Here Should Know
Ms. Ward believes Great Lakes Learning Academy helps prepare students for a bright and successful future by encouraging students to take ownership of their learning. They have to be in control of their deadlines and responsibilities.
One thing she would tell parents who are deciding whether to enroll here is to “become part of the partnership in learning. It sets your student up for such great success when the parent, student, and teacher work together for the same outcome.”
Ms. Ward’s Personal Interests
“I live in Georgia with my family and have eight kids and four dogs,” she says. “I love to hike, kayak, and I love the ocean. Georgia is the perfect place for me to live because we have mountains and the ocean.”
“My favorite classroom activity is [our on-camera] LiveLesson® sessions because I love seeing everyone interact.”
— Ms. Ward