Erin Cole
Elementary Teacher and Talented and Gifted (TAG) Coordinator
Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education, University of Northern Iowa
Erin Cole began teaching in 2014 and joined Iowa Connections Academy in 2020. Says Ms. Cole, “I really love the flexibility [this school] brings to its families, as well as the ability to support students of all abilities.”
Why She Became a Teacher
According to Ms. Cole, “I have always loved teaching for as long as I can remember, and I have had several teachers in my family, including both my grandmothers. Working with students and helping them grow and develop has been a wonderful experience for me.
“The most rewarding part of teaching at Iowa Connections Academy is being able to work with so many amazing students in so many unique situations. I am able to partner one-on-one with students, progress through content with them, and assist them with questions or concerns they may have, be it classes, grades, or even anxiety and stress.”
The Online School Experience at Iowa Connections Academy
Adds Ms. Cole, “We love being able to connect with our students and families and build relationships with them. Having those strong connections has a dramatic and positive impact on their time in school.
“Every Friday, I have a fun activity for students that encourages them to socialize with their classmates. We also have First Chapter Fridays, when I read a chapter of a new book. This enables students to explore new books they may not have heard of. Students love our directed drawing activities, our ‘would you rather’ activities, and especially our virtual scavenger hunts.”
Communication with teachers is key to student success, and here we communicate with our families and students as often as possible.
— Ms. Cole
Message for Families Considering Online School
“Iowa Connections Academy is such a unique learning environment,” notes Ms. Cole. “Students can work through classes at their own pace, and our classes are rigorous and intensive. We offer many resources and lots of support for students — including video lessons, tutoring services, and teacher-made resources like study guides and project tools.
“Students here learn to build their independence, master study skills, develop communication skills, and can demonstrate deeper levels of mastery and understanding than in a traditional school setting. … They can work through the curriculum at their own pace, and work with virtual teachers as needed.
“As a Learning Coach, you’ll be able to have a more active role in your student’s learning. You’ll be part of their learning team to help bring out their full potential.”
About Ms. Cole
According to Ms. Cole, “I enjoy reading, music and attending concerts, traveling across the country, gardening, hiking and camping, and spending time with family and friends.”