A Family Learning Together at Cascade Virtual Academy

When Dee first began exploring educational options for her children, she knew she wanted something that would nurture curiosity, provide structure, and have an adaptable structure. After researching her options, she chose to enroll her children in Cascade Virtual Academy (CVA), and five years later, she’s never looked back. Today, Dee proudly serves as a Learning Coach (LC) for her two elementary-aged children: her daughter Savannah, now in 4^th grade  and her son Jason Junior aka “JJ”, who is now in 2^nd grade.

“I did a lot of research when my daughter was a toddler,” Dee recalls. “Cascade Virtual Academy stood out as a flexible and supportive learning option that would allow my children to thrive without the distractions of a traditional classroom.”

Learning in Rhythm

Each day in their home begins around 8 AM, when the family makes breakfast together before diving into online lessons by 8:45 AM. The mornings are structured, with live classes and independent learning until 10:30 AM, followed by a short break filled with educational curiosity, often exploring fun science topics with Dr. Binocs videos.

After lunch, lessons continue until early afternoon before the family transitions into a lineup of extracurricular activities that include piano lessons, gymnastics, family dinners, board games, and bedtime reading. This structured yet balanced rhythm allows each child to learn and grow at their own pace.

“My daughter loves being able to work with minimal distractions in the evenings without missing out on fun activities during the day,” Dee says. “My son enjoys the one-on-one support he gets and loves being able to push his math skills further.”

Learning Through Life

For Dee’s family, education doesn’t end when the computer powers down. The children take private piano lessons, participate in gymnastics and Lego Club, and join other local community activities that extend their learning beyond the virtual classroom.

Dee also incorporates hands-on exploration through family travel. Some of their most memorable trips have included the Newport Aquarium, Heceta Head Lighthouse, the Discovery Center in Reedsport, and NASA in Florida. The family even took a cross-country road trip from Oregon through California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and back home. They made many memories together and got to witness the solar eclipse firsthand, a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience.

Most recently, Savannah and JJ took part in a local library outing where they embraced curiosity in the best way possible: by trying edible insects as part of an interactive learning experience! These experiences, Mrs. Weinstein says, are a fun reminder that learning doesn’t just happen in front of a screen; it happens everywhere curiosity leads.

A Supportive School Community

Having experienced brick-and-mortar schooling herself (her mother was a teacher), Dee values the difference that CVA’s supportive virtual environment makes for her children.

“CVA combines flexibility with a demanding curriculum,” Dee explains. “The teachers are patient, knowledgeable, and always willing to go above and beyond. My kids have the freedom to expand on their interests while still being challenged academically.”

In addition to their daily learning adventures, Dee and her family love participating in CVA’s in-person outings and events, which brings students, families, and teachers together across Oregon. This past spring, they joined the amazing Whale Watching Adventure, and at the beginning of this new school year, they experienced another unforgettable trip to Crater Lake, where the kids marveled at the deep blue waters and surrounding landscapes. Next up is the pumpkin patch, which they enjoyed last year as well!

A Family Thriving at CVA

Between the strong academic structure, community support, and opportunities for growth, Dee and her family have found their ideal learning environment at CVA.

“CVA gives my kids the chance to learn deeply, stay curious, and enjoy being part of something bigger,” Dee says. “It’s a lifestyle that truly fits us and we highly recommend this tuition-free online public charter school.”