Exploring Sage Oak’s Virtual Learning Academy with Principal Lana Beshara

In this episode of Sage Studio, host Tiffiny Webster interviews Lana Beshara, Principal of the Virtual Learning Academy (VLA) at Sage Oak Charter School. Lana provides insights into the enrollment process for the 2025-2026 school year and explains how VLA blends structured online learning with flexibility. The discussion covers the difference between independent study and homeschooling, the role of parents in online education, and how small class sizes help build strong teacher-student connections.

Lana also highlights Oakschool enrichment programs, field trips, and community-building activities, helping families understand how VLA provides both academic structure and social engagement. Resources for parents and steps to enroll are also shared.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:27 Meet Lana Beshara: Principal of the Virtual Learning Academy
01:13 Understanding Independent Study vs. Homeschooling
03:02 What Makes VLA Similar to Traditional Schools?
04:25 How Small Class Sizes Strengthen Teacher-Student Connections
06:20 A Day in the Life of a VLA Student: Live & Asynchronous Learning
07:06 Oakschool: Enrichment & Career-Focused Programs
08:45 Field Trips, Social Events, and Community Connections
10:52 The Parent’s Role in Virtual Learning Academy
12:19 Is VLA the Right Fit for Your Family?
13:04 How to Enroll for 2025-2026 & Upcoming Webinars
14:15 Conclusion and Farewell

For more information, visit the Sage Oak website at www.sageoak.education

Thank you for listening to the Sage Studio podcast presented by Sage Oak Charter Schools and hosted by Tiffiny Webster, M.A.Ed. We invite you to follow the show and leave your review below. Sage Oak Charter Schools is an independent study nonclassroom based TK-12 personalized learning public charter school serving students in Southern California. Visit sageoak.education for more information.

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Exploring Sage Oak's Personalized Learning Academy with Principal Chelsey Anema

In this episode of Sage Studio, host Tiffiny Webster interviews Chelsey Anema, Principal of the Personalized Learning Academy at Sage Oak Charter School. Chelsey provides insights into the enrollment process for the 2025-2026 school year. The discussion covers the differences between independent study and homeschooling, curriculum customization based on learning styles, and how Sage Oak supports a diverse range of learners. Chelsey also highlights specialized programs like Oakschool, community events, and various extracurricular activities. Resources for parents and ways to get involved are also shared.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:27 Meet Chelsey Anema: Principal of Personalized Learning Academy
01:13 Understanding Independent Study vs. Homeschool
03:02 Personalized Curriculum Choices
04:25 Learning Styles and Curriculum Customization
06:20 Community Providers and In-Person Classes
07:06 Programs for High Achieving Students
08:45 Oakschool: The Gem of Personalized Learning
10:52 Building a Strong Community at Sage Oak
12:19 Field Trips and Extracurricular Activities
13:04 Is Personalized Learning Right for Your Family?
13:32 How to Get Started with Sage Oak
14:15 Conclusion and Farewell

For more information, visit the Sage Oak website at www.sageoak.education.

Thank you for listening to the Sage Studio podcast presented by Sage Oak Charter Schools and hosted by Tiffiny Webster, M.A.Ed. We invite you to follow the show and leave your review below. Sage Oak Charter Schools is an independent study nonclassroom based TK-12 personalized learning public charter school serving students in Southern California. Visit sageoak.education for more information.

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In this episode of Sage Studio, hosted by Tiffiny Webster, the focus is on navigating the upcoming testing season and addressing the anxiety it can cause. Guests Bethany Burgos, an assessment facilitator at Sage Oak, and Allie Whalen, a school counselor, offer insights and strategies to help students and parents manage testing stress. The discussion covers the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and its components, including the Smarter Balanced Test and the California Science Test. Additionally, they discuss practical tips for test preparation, creating a conducive testing environment, and techniques to alleviate anxiety. Key takeaways include familiarizing students with the test format, ensuring proper rest and nutrition, and utilizing calming techniques. The episode also highlights upcoming test preparation workshops and the importance of celebrating once the testing season is over.

Thank you for listening to the Sage Studio podcast presented by Sage Oak Charter Schools and hosted by Tiffiny Webster, M.A.Ed. We invite you to follow the show and leave your review below. Sage Oak Charter Schools is an independent study nonclassroom based TK-12 personalized learning public charter school serving students in Southern California. Visit sageoak.education for more information.

Sage Oak Website
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Facebook
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