Hendry County students graduate from virtual study program

Originally published in the Caloosa Belle Independent on May 31, 2023

Some Hendry County School District students will be graduating this week from the Digital Academy of Florida (DAOF), comprising part of the 390 graduates state-wide in the virtual learning program’s graduation ceremony at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, 701 W. Lime St., starting at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 1.

Rep. Jennifer Canady of Lakeland is delivering the keynote address at the graduation, which is being held in Lakeland as a central venue.

DAOF students in middle and high schools choose from six virtual study programs including  business management and analysis, digital design, computer systems and informational technology, web development, medical laboratory assisting/phlebotomy and hospitality and tourism.

DAOF Director of Schools Laura Downes said there are approximately 37 Hendry County students enrolled in the school.

“We have an incredibly diverse group of students from all over the state of Florida,” she said.  “We are so proud of each of their accomplishments. We are also very proud of the relationships our teachers/staff build with our students and their families.  That partnership and commitment we pledge to our families ensures that all of our students succeed.  By working together with families, we can meet the specific needs of each [of] our learners.”       

The graduation is for high school students, of which 235 graduates will participate in person of the 390-graduating class. Of those students, 236 have plans to continue with postsecondary education, 143 plan to enter the workforce and 11 students will serve in the military, according to a DAOF press release.

Also included are 144 seniors already in the workforce who earned industry certifications including information technology, entrepreneurship and small business and graphic design.

“We are so proud of all of our students, faculty, and staff. Together they have proven the power of virtual learning when the school puts students and parents first with a commitment to preparing students for careers and postsecondary education,” said DAOF Executive Director Clark Berry in DAOF’s press release. “’Students first’ is how we operate at DAOF, and their accomplishments speak volumes about how our approach helps DAOF students thrive.”

Digital Academy of Florida (DAOF) is a full-time online public-school program of the Hendry County District of Schools serving Florida students in grades K-12. As a public school, DAOF is tuition-free and provides families the choice to access the curriculum and tools provided by K12, a Stride Company. Stride offers learners of all ages a more effective way to learn and build skills for their future. For more information about DAOF, visit https://daof.k12.com/.