Finding His Joy in Teaching: How Mr. Nelson Found His Place at Carolus Online Academy

For English teacher Carson Nelson, teaching has always been more than a career. After earning his degree in English and later pursuing a master’s degree in education, he knew he wanted to make a difference in the classroom. But after teaching in traditional school settings, Mr. Nelson found himself questioning whether he could continue in the profession he once loved. 

Today, as an English teacher at Carolus Online Academy (COA), Mr. Nelson has rediscovered that passion – and a renewed sense of purpose. 

A Journey to Find the Right Fit 

Originally from West Virginia, Mr. Nelson spent the first 25 years of his life there before moving to the Carolinas. He began his teaching career in the same high school he had attended as a student, even completing his student teaching in the classroom of one of his former English teachers. 

While he valued many aspects of teaching, Mr. Nelson eventually found himself struggling with the school environment. 

 He felt burned out and disconnected from the reasons he had become a teacher in the first place. 

Then, a friend suggested he consider online teaching. 

Rediscovering a Love for Teaching 

Mr. Nelson applied for a position with Carolus Online Academy and was immediately drawn to the school’s vision and leadership.  

It proved to be the right decision. 

“When I started, it was apparent that this was the best decision I ever made,” Mr. Nelson said. “I just love it. I love my students. I love what I do.” 

At Carolus, Mr. Nelson teaches high school English and appreciates the ability to meet students where they are academically and personally. Rather than simply focusing on data, he says the school recognizes the individual behind the student ID number and works to understand each student’s circumstances. 

Finding Balance and Creativity 

The change has also allowed Mr. Nelson to find greater balance outside of work. He has returned to hobbies he loves, including cooking, reading, attending concerts and collecting records. 

Most importantly, he has regained his enthusiasm for creating meaningful learning experiences. With Carolus’ curriculum as a foundation, Mr. Nelson can adapt lessons, develop additional materials and create activities that connect with the students he teaches. 

For Mr. Nelson, finding Carolus wasn’t simply about finding a new school. It was about finding the right environment to become the teacher he wanted to be. 

“I actually feel appreciated and also supported,” he said. 

Is Online Learning Right for You? 

At Carolus Online Academy (COA), students experience a tuition-free online education designed for their individual learning needs. Serving K-12th grade students in South Carolina, COA offers a college and career-focused curriculum, passionate teachers, and a variety of social and extracurricular opportunities. Since its founding in 2023, COA has empowered students through flexible learning and personalized support. As a K12-powered school, COA benefits from 25 years of leadership in online education through K12, a Stride, Inc. portfolio brand. Learn more at coa.k12.com. 

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