Counselor Spotlight: Ms. Terri Alvarado

We are so grateful for the guidance and leadership of our school counselors at the Digital Academy of Florida (DAOF). Meet Ms. Terri Alvarado, the lead counselor for grades 6 – 8. With more than 30 years of experience in education, Ms. Alvarado brings wisdom, warmth, and a deep passion for supporting students in a virtual environment.

Meeting Students Where They Are – Literally

When most people imagine a school counselor, they picture a quiet office tucked away in a busy school building. But for Ms. Alvarado, counseling looks a bit different – and in many ways, even more impactful.

“I joke that my dog is my therapy support animal,” she laughs, acknowledging the realities of remote work and the emotional support both students and staff need to thrive in a virtual space.

Real-Time Support in a Virtual World

At DAOF, virtual classrooms are designed for flexibility and responsiveness. If a student needs immediate help, teachers can “buzz” a counselor into the Zoom session.

“If I’m not already with a student, I jump right in,” Ms. Alvarado explains. “I can take over and help while the teacher continues teaching. It’s seamless, fast, and mitigates interruptions”

A Safe Space for Every Student

Virtual learning offers unique benefits, especially for students who have struggled in traditional settings. Ms. Alvarado has seen students with disabilities, IEPs, 504 plans, or anxiety thrive in this environment.

“They can focus on learning without worrying about being judged or stared at,” she says. “It gives them the freedom and safety they need to succeed.”

One innovative feature of virtual student life at DAOF is the “K12 Zone” – an online space that functions like a game-based hangout. Counselors are asked to monitor it for at least an hour a week, much like a virtual cafeteria duty.

“It’s been kind of nice,” she says. “I can hear and read their conversations, and step in when needed.” She adds that students even joke around with her in the game. “They’ll start circling me and say, ‘I’m protecting my counselor!’”

Making Help Accessible to Families

Ms. Alvarado appreciates how virtual counseling allows for greater flexibility and accessibility -not just for students, but for families too.

“When a student has an IEP or a 504 meeting, parents don’t have to take time off work or travel,” she explains. “We schedule it at a convenient time, and we handle the rest.”

Ultimately, Ms. Alvarado sees virtual counseling as an extension – not a limitation – of traditional support.

“It’s quicker. It’s flexible. And the kids open up in ways they might not in person,” she says.

Ms. Alvarado’s work reminds us that being behind a screen doesn’t mean being out of reach. Whether it’s a Zoom alert or a conversation in a virtual game, support is always just a click away.

Is Online Learning Right for Your Family?

Virtual education is one of the many choices out there for your child. Explore Digital Academy of Florida and discover how our flexible online programs can empower your child to thrive, graduate early, and achieve their goals sooner. Click here to get started today!

Back to Blog