Los Alamos Online Learning Academy (LAOLA) has allowed students to not worry or wonder about what was, but instead inspire students to think of what can be, because at LAOLA, the staff ensure the future is now by being champions of academics and friendships, ensuring kids can live the childhood they deserve, with the education, connections, and support they are worthy of.
In an ever-changing world, LAOLA shows us what is possible in the future of education by creating a wonderful, caring, learning environment for all of it's students that embodies what it means to create a classroom that truly makes each child feel special so they can thrive. Each child is met right where they are and given the tools to thrive. This differentiation and being able to serve each child to cultivate their gifts is not easy to do, but LAOLA does it well.
LAOLA teachers and staff continue to defy expectations of what online learning can look like. The Roadrunner Rally has encouraged the entire school to make connections and have a true sense of community. Most people would not believe how close the students and staff are, seeing as they are literally miles away from each other. The bonds that are created are truly remarkable and hard to imagine for those of us who have never experienced LAOLA. The teachers and staff have a true calling to these students. I continue to be blown away by the care the staff has for students and meeting all of their needs.
LAOLA teachers have created a truly living classroom that thrives in all of the students' homes. It is hard to imagine how this is possible, but teachers make all of the students feel like they are right there for them. The activities are so engaging for each student at their individual level. One memorable lesson was making predictions about what happens to the snowman each student built at their own house, which captured the artist, scientist, reader, and active child, and allowed the child who didn't know they had those gifts to see them inside themselves for the first time. The thoughtfulness and time spent for students in creating materials to be sent home for children to work on and hang in their bedrooms where they quite literally dream, is exemplified by their own "I have a Dream" speech poster inspired by Martin Luther King Jr. This year's Adventure Fridays have introduced the students to service learning activities that have strengthened our community and have taught our students the importance of caring for others. Community partners have joined in to help our students feel a true sense of community.
The individual attention each child receives is such a special gift that we are truly thankful for. LAOLA has made it so my child has has always felt safe and supported, allowing for confidence and excellence. LAOLA shows us that the future is now for successful online education.
Instead of wondering what was, we are able to dream of what could be in education because it is happening at LAOLA. The connections that are made through the computer, being social, emotional, and in academics, are evidence that online education though LAOLA can and should continue to be an integral part of Los Alamos.
Thank you for your time,
Jessica Rodarte
Parent of LAOLA student