Finding Joy in the Virtual Classroom: James’ Journey as an Online Teacher 

When James first began online teaching at Missouri Virtual Academy (MOVA), he didn’t approach it as a temporary substitute for traditional teaching. He saw it as an opportunity to rethink how learning could work. “I really enjoyed teaching online,” he says. “I started developing some of my own techniques for engagement and for running an online classroom.” What began as curiosity quickly grew into a calling 

When students enter James’ online classroom at Missouri Virtual Academy (MOVA), they quickly learn that virtual school doesn’t mean distant learning; it means personalized learning. 

James has built a classroom where students feel seen, supported, and excited to participate. His approach blends structure with creativity, giving students the confidence to take risks, ask questions, and discover what they’re capable of. 

He is intentional about keeping students active and involved. Whether they’re using digital tools like Microsoft Whiteboard to sketch ideas together or sharing real‑life objects from home during show‑and‑tell, students are constantly interacting. 

“Learning from home makes it easy for students to bring their world into the classroom,” he explains. “They can grab something from their house or upload pictures, and suddenly we’re all learning from each other.” These moments help students connect, collaborate, and build relationships in ways that feel natural and comfortable. 

James also normalizes mistakes and celebrates the learning process. He loves watching the shift that happens when students realize mistakes aren’t something to hide, but they’re something to grow from. “I’m interested in the process,” he says. “Getting the right answer is just one small part of learning.”  Many of James’ students come to MOVA after feeling lost or overlooked in traditional classrooms. Online learning gives them space to breathe and to grow. 

One of the biggest strengths of James’ classroom is the partnership he builds with parents and learning coaches. He makes it a priority to connect with them early, helping to demonstrate that their students’ success is a team effort and online school can feel just as supportive as a traditional classroom. 

James also brings joy and community into his teaching. As an avid disc golfer, he organizes meetups for students who live nearby “I’m sponsored by a team, so I bring free gear,” he says. “We meet at a park at least twice a year. These outings blend fun, physical activity, and connection, showing families that online schools don’t limit social opportunities; it expands them. 

For many students, MOVA becomes the place where they finally thrive. The flexibility, the individualized attention, and the supportive environment help them rediscover their love of learning. 

“For parents or students who feel lost in traditional schools, this can be a great option,” James says. “With a strong internet connection and a desire for flexibility, families can find a learning environment that feels personalized, supportive, and empowering.” 

And for James, the heart of it all is simple: Online learning isn’t a backup plan. It’s a vibrant, joyful way to teach and learn.