Teacher Spotlight: Kelly Shaeffer
Kelly Schaeffer finds balance as a Willamette Connections Academy High School Language Arts Teacher and women’s tackle football player. Hear more from Ms. Schaeffer about how the flexibility of online school allows her to support students’ unique academic needs.
Student Spotlight
Teacher Spotlight: Kelly Shaeffer
Kelly Schaeffer finds balance as a Willamette Connections Academy High School Language Arts Teacher and women’s tackle football player. Hear more from Ms. Schaeffer about how the flexibility of online school allows her to support students’ unique academic needs.
In the News:
- Oregon Ravens, women's tackle football team, opens season | kgw.com
- Milwaukie resident looks forward to first Oregon Ravens game of season | clackamasreview.com
Many of us in the teaching profession have faced difficult challenges in recent years and have decided to change the direction of our careers. While every teacher has their own story, I decided to switch school environments to try a new teaching experience. I’m now working at a statewide online public school called Willamette Connections Academy, and loving it!
I enjoy working at Willamette Connections Academy because I can maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle that I need for myself, my family, my students, and my community, which is essential to navigate through this hectic world these days.
There are many reasons why I made the switch from traditional public school to a full-time virtual public charter school, but the main one is the flexibility it offers me personally and professionally. I can maintain a healthy personal life while also being good at what I do; teach reading and writing to high school students.
Teaching in the brick-and-mortar schools was a wonderful experience. However, it took everything I had—all my energy, focus, and time—and by day’s end, there was very little left for myself and my family, and even my students.
Now, I’m working more efficiently, which means I am using my time to truly support students' academic needs. I don’t miss driving in traffic, or helping maintain order in the classroom, hallways, and on campus in general. I no longer use countless classroom management skills that take up too much time and energy, at the expense of the students' educational development. In the virtual environment, I’m able to meet with students and families on a more one-on-one basis. This is what attracted me to this type of teaching experience.
I’m already getting to know my students and their families more because I talk with them regularly. I love being a part of this journey, watching each student learn at their own pace— more advanced learners can move ahead when they’re ready, while those who struggle can spend more time on a subject. The flexibility of online school also works well for students who participate in extracurricular activities during regular classroom hours.
Online teaching has benefited my personal and professional life in so many ways. Personally, working for Willamette Connections Academy allows me to be more available for my sons' academics and athletics. I’m more present with my family overall, so I can spend my time doing other things I enjoy outside of the virtual classroom, like sports, camping, gardening, and reading. Professionally, I feel like I’m teaching the way I’ve always hoped to since my career started; helping every student succeed and having the tools to make that happen.
Kelly Schaeffer teaches 9th and 11th grade Language Arts at Willamette Connections Academy, a statewide full-time online public school.
LEARNING WITHOUT LIMITS
Ignite Your Child’s Passions
Change is everywhere. At Oregon's Willamette Connections Academy, we’re helping students see change as an opportunity—so they can thrive in the world that lies ahead.
Our tuition-free online public school offers students in grades K–12 a safe, engaging environment where they can learn in the way that works best for them. Not only will your child gain the knowledge and confidence they need for state assessments. They'll build fundamental life skills they need to meet tomorrow’s challenges. As their learning coach, you’ll be by their side, supporting them along the way.
Teaching students in grades K-12
Tuition-free and high-quality
Authorized by the Scio School District
YOUR CHILD'S DAY
SEE HOW A TYPICAL LESSON WORKS FOR STUDENTS:
Science 4th grade, Plant Structures
Social Studies 3rd grade, The Environment
4th Grade Plant Structures - Sample Lessons
4th Grade Science
Plant Structures
Connections Academy 4th Grade Online Learning Unit | Plant Structures
2 min video
In this unit, Connections Academy online students explore how plants have adapted to their environments, diversifying and changing to thrive in all kinds of locations. Guided through a series of individual lessons that use dynamic text, video and audio, students enhance their critical thinking skills and their ability to make connections in the world.
3rd Grade Social Studies - Sample Lessons
3rd Grade Social Studies
The Environment
Connections Academy 3rd Grade Online Learning Unit | The Environment
2 min video
In this unit, Connections Academy online students take a virtual journey around the world, learning how geography and climate come together to create our environment. Guided through a series of individual lessons that use dynamic text, video and audio, students increase their understanding of science and why it matters to their life today and the world of tomorrow.
Teachers Who Know How to Reach Students
Our elementary teachers love helping young students learn and grow. They'll also be the partners you need to fully support your child as their Learning Coach. State certified and specially trained in online learning, our teachers embrace the uniqueness of every student and guide them along the learning path that’s right for them, leading them to a future full of opportunity.
PARTNERS IN LEARNING
Empowering Parents Alongside Students
There’s no better feeling than watching your child thrive. At Willamette Connections Academy, we give you the opportunity to be your child’s learning coach so you can be a part of their successes. Here’s what other parents are saying about the experience.
At Connections Academy, teachers go above and beyond to make sure each student is learning and understanding the material." — Scott C.
I love how personal online school is and the amount of one-on-one time students receive." — Josephine R.
It is truly a place where teachers can be teachers and students are free to explore the realms of education." — Lisa C.
94%
Of parents agree the Connections Academy curriculum is high-quality.
97%
Of parents are satisfied with the helpfulness of their child's teachers.
97%
Of parents agree the program provides more involvement in their student's education.
FOR ALL STUDENTS
Finding the Right Path for Each Student
Learning is a personal journey. And we take an individualized approach. However your child learns best, our teachers and curriculum will lead them forward.
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