Meet Ms. Osborne: Virginia Virtual Academy’s High-Energy PE Teacher 

When you hear the words ‘virtual PE’, you probably don’t picture a teacher dressed as a slice of pizza, jumping on furniture and pretending that the floor is lava. Unless, of course, you’ve met Ms. Sherry Osborne. 

From the Classroom to Bee Costumes

Ms. Osborne joined VAVA during the pandemic after years in traditional kindergarten classrooms. The shift to online teaching came after a particularly challenging year left her looking for something more positive. She didn’t get the first job she applied for, but a new opening soon launched her virtual career. 

“The school knew I loved PE and asked if I’d teach one class a week. Then Virginia required a full-time PE teacher, and here I am!” she says with a grin. 

She now leads live physical education sessions for K–5 students and shows up in everything from a bee costume to a Mario suit, a donut, and even a turkey. 

“The kids log in just to see what I’m wearing. Even the learning coaches pop in now and then just to check it out,” she laughed. 

Inside a Virtual PE Class 

So, what exactly does gym class look like from a computer screen? 

Each of Ms. Osborne’s 30- to 45-minute sessions includes warm-ups, movement games, workouts and the famous “Running Challenge” – a timed game where students try to outrun Ms. Osborne while on the clock. 

“They get to unmute their screen and shout, ‘I beat the teacher!’ It’s their favorite thing ever.” 

Classes also incorporate health education (for her older students) and are inclusive for students of all physical abilities. 

“Some kids run, others walk fast. It’s about moving your body, having fun, and building confidence,” she says. 

Building Connection and Confidence 

Despite the virtual setting, Ms. Osborne says the relationships she’s built at VAVA are stronger than she imagined. 

“People think you can’t form real bonds virtually. But I’ve cried with my fifth graders before they went to middle school. The connections are real.” 

She’s especially mindful of students who may be struggling with their weight or self-confidence. She keeps a close eye on participation and sends personal messages of encouragement when she sees a student giving it their all. 

“You should see how they light up when they get that email or message. It means everything.” 

PE With a Purpose 

Ms. Osborne’s passion for physical education runs deep – and it stems from what she’s seen in today’s youth. 

“Obesity is a real issue. A lot of kids don’t have access to healthy food or don’t know better. If I can give them 10-15 minutes of activity and encouragement, it could change their day, or their life.” 

She promotes outdoor play, healthy food choices, and even shares her favorite energy drink with students who get curious about her daily routine. 

“They’ll hold up drinks to the camera and ask me if they’re healthy,” she laughed. “They really do listen.” 

Looking ahead, Ms. Osborne hopes to launch a monthly virtual cooking club where students can learn how to make fun, healthy recipes at home. 

“It’s another way to get them engaged and teach life skills. Plus, it’s just fun!” 

How Best to Describe Ms. Osborne? 

A Lasting Impact 

Whether she’s lifting spirits during testing season, leading 70+ students through a PE session, or spreading joy one costume at a time, Ms. Osborne is proving every day that virtual education can be active and, more importantly, fun. 

“I truly have the best job on the planet,” she said. “Where else can you teach from anywhere, connect with kids, and wear a donut costume to work?” 

Is Online Learning Right for Your Family?  

Virtual education is one of the many choices out there for your child. Explore Virginia Virtual Academy 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!  

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