DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Brandywine Virtual Academy has hired former student Emily Jones as a student support services coordinator, bringing a graduate of its online learning program into a role helping students, families, and school districts navigate virtual education.
Jones joined the program’s staff more than a decade after enrolling as a student while managing health challenges that made attending a traditional school difficult.
Her appointment gives the academy a coordinator with firsthand experience using its services, particularly the flexibility and individualized support available to students whose circumstances complicate conventional classroom attendance.
“BVA changed my life because it gave me the opportunity to learn in the way I needed to learn,” Jones said. “It helped me understand my own learning style, build confidence, and succeed academically during a time when I needed support the most.”
After attending BVA, Jones continued through high school and college, earning a degree in anthropology before beginning a career in human resources.
She subsequently returned to education, taking a position with the program she previously attended.
As a student support services coordinator, Jones works with students, families and participating school districts to identify and access resources available through the academy.
Her responsibilities place her in direct contact with learners facing challenges similar to those she experienced, allowing her to draw on her background when helping students navigate online instruction.
“As a former BVA student, I understand that every learner’s situation is different,” Jones said. “Being able to tell students, ‘I understand your challenges, and I’m here to help,’ is incredibly meaningful because I know firsthand how much that support can matter.”
Dr. Jeanne McCarthy, director of Brandywine Virtual Academy, said Jones’ experience as both a student and an employee provides a perspective that can inform the program’s support services.
“Seeing her return as a staff member has been especially meaningful because she now has the opportunity to provide that same support and encouragement to today’s students,” McCarthy said.
Brandywine Virtual Academy provides online learning opportunities for students across the region, offering an alternative instructional setting for those seeking flexibility outside a traditional school environment.
Additional information about the program is available at https://bva.cciu.org/.
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