Arizona Virtual Academy Career Readiness Education Administrator Named K-12 Dive Rising Leader

Dr. Erica Young-JacksonPhoto byAZVA

Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) and Insight Academy of Arizona (ISAZ), two full-time, online public schools serving students throughout the state, announce that Career Readiness Education Administrator Dr. Erica Young-Jackson has been named one of K-12 Dive’s Rising Leaders for 2024-2025. This prestigious national recognition places Young-Jackson among the top 10 district leaders in the country.

K-12 Dive, a leading online publication covering K-12 education, conducts an annual search for outstanding assistant principals and district leaders across the U.S. Its editors chose Young-Jackson from a competitive pool of nominees and included her among 10 exceptional district leaders.

“Dr. Young-Jackson’s recognition as a K-12 Dive Rising Leader is a testament to her unwavering commitment to student success and innovative approach to career readiness education,” said Charles Woods, Executive Director of AZVA. “Her leadership has been instrumental in preparing our students for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.”

The Rising Leaders program, initiated by K-12 Dive, aims to spotlight emerging talent in educational leadership. Each year, the publication invites readers to nominate outstanding assistant principals and district leaders who demonstrate exceptional potential and impact in their roles.

Young-Jackson’s selection highlights her significant contributions to career readiness education at AZVA and ISAZ, including the growth of available career pathways from four to 15 and coordinating annual CTE events to provide students with networking and advancement opportunities. She has also established local CTE student organizations like HOSA: Future Health Professionals and SkillsUSA and expanded student certification opportunities for CCMA, OSHA, CPR, Adobe and RISE. Her innovative strategies and dedication to preparing students for future careers have set her apart as a leader in the field of virtual education.

“This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collaborative efforts of our entire team at AZVA and ISAZ,” Young-Jackson said. “We are committed to providing our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy.”

The impact of Young-Jackson’s work extends beyond the virtual classroom. Her approach to career readiness education has become a model for other virtual schools across the nation, demonstrating the potential of online learning environments to prepare students for real-world success. Both AZVA and ISAZ are dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality education that prepares students for college, career and life success.

Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) is an AdvancED-accredited, full-time online public charter school that serves Arizona students in kindergarten through 12th grade. As part of the Arizona public school system, AZVA is tuition-free and provides families the choice to access the curriculum and tools provided by K12, a Stride Company (NYSE: LRN). Stride offers learners of all ages a more effective way to learn and build skills for their future. For more information visit azva.k12.com.

Insight Academy of Arizona (ISAZ) is an AdvancED-accredited, full-time online public school that serves Arizona students in grades 7-12. As part of the Arizona public school system, ISAZ is tuition-free and provides families the choice to access the curriculum and tools provided by K12, a Stride Company (NYSE: LRN). Stride offers learners of all ages a more effective way to learn and build skills for their future. For more information about ISAZ, visit insightaz.k12.com.