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Virginia Virtual Academy Celebrates More Than 500 Graduates in the Class of 2026 

Community & Social
VAVA graduation

More than 500 Virginia Virtual Academy (VAVA) students recently marked an important milestone as they crossed the graduation stage at James Madison University, celebrating the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and achievement. 

The Class of 2026 gathered from across the Commonwealth to celebrate together in person, joined by family members, friends, teachers, and staff who have supported them throughout their educational journeys. 

A Class Defined by Achievement* 

This year’s graduates have already begun charting exciting paths for their futures: 

  • 43 students graduated early, giving them a head start on college, careers, and other opportunities. 
  • 99 graduates have already secured job offers and are preparing to enter the workforce. 
  • 267 students plan to attend colleges and universities across the country. 
  • 22 graduates are enlisting in the military, choosing to serve their country and communities. 

*Information provided by VAVA 

These accomplishments reflect the determination and ambitions of VAVA students, who have embraced personalized learning to pursue their individual goals. 

Student and Teacher Voices Take Center Stage 

A special highlight of the ceremony was hearing from members of the VAVA community whose stories reflect the spirit of the school. 

The Class of 2026 selected science teacher Amber Pogue as the commencement speaker. Now in her 19th year of teaching, Pogue inspires students through courses including Chemistry, Biology, and AP Environmental Science. Since joining VAVA in 2023, she has been passionate about making science engaging and accessible for learners across Virginia. 

VAVA faculty selected graduating senior Rachel Hernandez of Chantilly as the student commencement speaker. Hernandez, a first-generation college student, has been actively involved in school life through the Newspaper Club, National Honor Society, and the Teacher Assistant Program, which she helped establish. This fall, she will attend George Mason University to study mechanical engineering. 

Proudly Serving Military Families 

VAVA is proud to support military-connected students throughout the Commonwealth. Recognized as a Purple Star School, VAVA provides stability and continuity for families navigating relocations, changing schedules, and deployments. 

The school’s flexible model helps ensure students can maintain consistency in their education regardless of where military service takes their families. 

Looking Ahead 

“The Class of 2026 reflects the power of personalized learning and the incredible potential of students when they are supported in ways that work best for them,” said Kenny Moles, Executive Director of VAVA. “Throughout our students’ educational journey, they have built the confidence, resilience, and real-world skills needed to take the next step toward college, careers, and beyond. Through flexible learning opportunities, they have been empowered to spend time exploring their passions and discovering their strengths.” 

As these graduates begin their next chapters, the entire VAVA community celebrates their accomplishments and looks forward to seeing the impact they will make in Virginia and beyond. 

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