Preparing Students for the Real World: Inside the 9-5 Job Readiness Club 

At Virginia Virtual Academy (VAVA), preparing for the future is more than just checking a box – it’s a mindset of intentional skill building. Through the school’s 9–5 Job Readiness Club, students are gaining the tools, confidence, and professionalism they’ll need to thrive in the workplace.  

The club, led by VAVA’s business and economics teachers, helps students explore careers, develop skills, and connect what they’re learning in school to life beyond graduation. 

“We want our students to feel prepared for what comes next – whether that’s college, a career, or something in between,” said Lindsey Bradshaw, who teaches business and information technology. “The 9–5 Club gives them a safe place to practice those real-world skills now.” 

A Team of Educators with a Shared Mission 

The 9–5 Job Readiness Club is led by an enthusiastic team of VAVA educators: Lindsey Bradshaw, Jacob Shuman, Vicki Stidham, and Natalia Popko. Each brings a unique background and represents all regions of the commonwealth – from the beaches of Virginia to the foothills of the Appalachians – and they share a passion for helping students connect learning to life. 

“Our students are smart and capable. They just need opportunities to learn what professionalism looks like in practice,” said Mr. Shuman, who joined VAVA in 2024 and teaches economics, personal finance, and marketing. “This club gives them that experience before they ever step into the workforce.” 

Together, these educators bring decades of combined experience in teaching business, economics, and personal finance – all courses that lend themselves to lessons in communication, leadership, and responsibility. 

What Happens in the 9 – 5 Job Readiness Club? 

Each month, club members meet virtually to focus on a specific workplace skill or career development topic. Sessions often include guest speakers, student-led discussions, and practical activities like resume workshops or mock interviews. 

“We cover things like writing a professional email, building a résumé, preparing for an interview, and even managing your time on the job,” said Ms. Bradshaw. “It’s all about giving students a foundation they can build on.” 

The club also emphasizes soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which employers rank among the most important qualities for new hires. 

“We talk a lot about what it means to be reliable, to show initiative, and to have a good attitude,” said Ms. Stidham, who brings nearly 30 years of teaching experience to the team. “Those are skills that carry you through any career.” 

Building Confidence Through Real-World Connections 

What makes the 9–5 Club special is how it connects classroom learning to real-life experiences. Students are encouraged to explore their interests, set personal goals, and think about how their education supports their future. 

“We have students who want to be nurses, business owners, graphic designers – you name it,” said Ms. Popko, who teaches economics and personal finance. “The club helps them understand how to get there – what steps to take and what employers are really looking for.” 

This fall, the club’s activities have aligned with National Career Development Month, offering students extra opportunities to reflect on their strengths and explore potential career pathways. 

“It’s the perfect time to help students think about where they want to go next,” Ms. Bradshaw added. “Even small conversations about career goals can spark something big.” 

Preparing for What’s Next 

As the 9–5 Job Readiness Club continues to grow, its leaders hope to expand opportunities for student engagement, including virtual career fairs and partnerships with local professionals. 

“We’re proud of what our students are accomplishing,” said Ms. Popko. “They’re taking initiative, they’re learning to network, and they’re realizing that they have what it takes to succeed.” 

Through programs like this, Virginia Virtual Academy continues to show that virtual learning isn’t just about academics – it’s about preparing students for their next step, wherever it may lead.

Back to Blog