ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Back to School at Sage Oak’s Virtual Learning Academy (2026–2027) with Assistant Principal Mary Hizon-Barry
In this episode, host Tiffiny Webster talks with Virtual Learning Academy assistant principal Mary Hizon-Barry about back to school for the 2026/2027 year, including expanded paraprofessional support across all grade levels five days a week, targeted small-group help in math and writing, and how VLA combines live, interactive Zoom classes with asynchronous work on Canvas that requires active parent partnership. Mary shares the return of monthly whole-school field trips based on parent feedback, plus ongoing in-person socials to build community. She explains how AVID strategies are embedded to build organization, critical thinking, collaboration, and college/career readiness. The episode also highlights career exploration through field trips, assemblies, teacher discussions, middle school use of the Pathful platform, and student informational interviews with family networks, along with weekly Sage News and class newsletters sent Mondays.
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:36 Meet Assistant Principal Mary
01:31 New Year Updates and Support
02:56 How Virtual Classes Work
04:50 Office Hours and Extra Help
05:38 Field Trips and Socials
06:55 AVID Skills Framework
08:37 Career Readiness for All Ages
12:16 Weekly Updates and Kickoff Events
14:23 Enrollment Info and Closing
For more information visit www.sagoak.education
Thank you for listening to the Sage Studio podcast presented by Sage Oak Charter Schools and hosted by Tiffiny Webster, M.A.Ed. We invite you to follow the show and leave your review below. Sage Oak Charter Schools is an independent study nonclassroom based TK-12 personalized learning public charter school serving students in Southern California. Visit sageoak.education for more information.
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