The Greeneville City School Board of Education heard from Janet Ricker who had a presentation for the board and introduced staff and students from Hal Henard Elementary School.
Ricker gained some insight from Hal Henard students who gave opinions on how they felt about the school, their classes, and teachers. Students shared their love through videos for the peaceful zen vibe they’re getting in the library, expressed how nice and caring their teachers are, and how important it is that everyone is kind to each other at the school.
A TOPS (Tennessee Online Public School) report was given by Richard Tipton showing the progress of the virtual school over the years and its mission/goals for students. TOPS is a 100% virtual school that aims to provide flexible and rigorous online learning environments where students can feel free and have a safe space to pursue their passion.
The courses are taught by licensed and caring teachers, according to Tipton, who bring the classroom to the students’ home computer, without the school bell. It’s for students in K-12 throughout the state and is another education option for your child. Many children have different needs and excel in different types of environments. Virtual school could be a better option for those who for example are fragile, sick or have a weak immune system, and overall just an option to have so the student may also pursue other opportunities.
Since TOPS first started they’ve received from 80 to 100 students and are seeing a spike in enrollment. Work continues to address any concern and student needs, head one, right then and there. Class scores were reported to the board and show a positive increase since 2022 in the students’ performance for ELA, Science, and Math. Tipton even stated some students in Kindergarten are reading at 2nd and 3rd grade levels. He said families enjoy the lifestyle and flexibility of TOPS.
