Building Connections Beyond the Classroom

For Tabitha Ball, teaching has always felt like a natural calling. 

“I always liked working with kids,” she said. “I have younger brothers who are twins, and I was always trying to teach them and plan activities for them.” 

Now in her 12th year as an educator and her second year with Carolus Online Academy (COA), Ms. Ball serves as a fifth-grade math teacher, helping students across South Carolina build confidence and succeed in a supportive virtual environment. 

Recently named COA’s Teacher of the Year, Ms. Ball was surprised by the recognition. 

“I clicked the video and thought, ‘Oh my goodness,’” she recalled. “It was a great honor.” 

Why Virtual Education Matters 

Throughout her career, Ms. Ball has worked in traditional schools, charter schools, and specialized educational settings. She also holds a master’s degree in special education with an emphasis in visual impairment, giving her a unique perspective on meeting students’ diverse needs. 

That experience helped shape her belief in school choice. 

“Some kids don’t thrive in a traditional environment,” she explained. “Some families travel, some parents work from home, and some students have had difficult experiences in school. Having a virtual option allows families to find what works best for them.” 

She has also seen firsthand how virtual learning can provide a safe and healthy environment where students feel comfortable being themselves. 

“A lot of kids thrive because of that,” she said. 

Seeing Students in a New Way 

One of Ms. Ball’s favorite aspects of teaching online is the opportunity to connect with students in their everyday environments. 

“They’ll bring their pets in and show me, or share their drawings and things they’re proud of,” she said. “Sometimes parents sit beside their child and learn the material, too.” 

These moments create meaningful relationships that often extend beyond academics. 

“Some kids who won’t talk in a traditional classroom will talk behind the safety of a screen,” Ms. Ball said. “Or they’ll use the chat box to communicate. It gives them a chance to build confidence.” 

A Unique Parent Perspective 

This year, Ms. Ball gained another valuable perspective when her own daughter enrolled at COA. 

“It’s been great because I’ve been able to see everything from the parent view and the student view,” she said. 

As both a teacher and a Learning Coach, Ms. Ball experienced many of the same opportunities available to COA families, including field trips and in-person events. 

“We loved going on field trips and meeting teachers in person,” she said. 

Looking Towards the Future 

As technology continues to shape the future of education, Ms. Ball believes virtual learning will remain an important option for families. 

“We live in such a technology-driven society,” she said. “Education is moving more in that direction, and it just felt right.” 

Whether she’s helping students solve math problems, building relationships with families, or encouraging shy learners to find their voice, Ms. Ball is making a lasting impact – one connection at a time. 

Our Mission  

As we step into a new school year, we’re reminded that education isn’t just about books and lessons; it’s about community, compassion and creating opportunities for every child to succeed. 

Thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, and joined us for this milestone event. Together, we’re building more than school readiness. We’re building hope. If this is a community that your family wants to be a part of, learn more today at coa.k12.com.

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