Sequoia Choice Arizona Distance Learning

Here are some staff members' favorite memories from their time at SCAZDL.

✨Sequoia Star: Student✨
Meet Ethan (11th grader)

Ethan consistently demonstrates a growth mindset by embracing challenges and seeking opportunities to improve. He welcomes feedback with a positive attitude and uses it as a tool for growth in both his academic and personal life. Ethan is always willing to make adjustments, learn from his experiences, and strive to be his best self. His dedication, maturity, and commitment to continuous improvement make him a pleasure to work with and a wonderful example for others.

What do you enjoy most about being a student at Sequoia Choice AZDL?

Ever since I moved out of Houston, Texas, as a half native American and African American, I was bullied my whole life until I attended Sequoia Online School. I really love it. Before, I didn't think I would pass and wanted to quit school, but I know that God and Jesus want better for me and brought me a professional teacher named Laura Browne, who helped me from the beginning. Thank Jesus Christ in the Lord and Savior that she helps so many people.

What is something you're proud of accomplishing this school year?

I'm proud of getting math done all by myself. I'm glad that I finished science, ELA, and history. I'm so happy that I got good grades. Then I can get a diploma just to see Miss Laura Browne's face, the teacher who helped me.

What are some of your favorite things to do outside of school?

I enjoy Native American dancing and football. My favorite team is the Kansas City Chiefs and the Washington Red Skins. My favorite hockey team is the Chicago Blackhawks. I like to watch the history of Sitting Bull.

What are your dreams for the future—what do you hope to do or become someday?

Someday I hope to do my great-great-grandpa's culture, as he is native American Cherokee. I like to do community service. Dancing, hand-making, and helping out my people of my great, great-grandpa and great grandma, who is also half Indian.

What has been your favorite subject, class, teacher, or assignments this year?

Science and Miss Laura Browne.

Tomorrow!

https://edkey-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/wVRzSnF2RoCaBQirIySt7Q

✨Sequoia Star Staff: Sally McBride (Advisor)✨

What inspired you to work in education?

Ever since I was a little girl I loved setting up a room into a classroom. I would tape black construction paper to the walls and make a 'chalkboard'. I would set chairs in front of the chalkboard and make a classroom. I always had great teachers and loved going to school, and that is probably part of the reason I have always wanted to be a teacher.

What do you love most about your role at Sequoia Choice AZDL?

I tell everyone that out of all the employees at Sequoia Choice I have the very best job! I not only get to meet with students online, but I also meet with students for in-person tutoring, holiday parties, and field trips. It is so fulfilling to work with the amazing students and families in the Gila Valley. They are truly incredible!
If you could give one piece of advice to students about online learning, what would it be?

Online learning benefits so many different types of families. If your child is ready to move ahead academically, would benefit from a flexible schedule, prefers learning from the comfort of home, would benefit from tutoring sessions, has a medical condition or excessive absences, depends on a top-notch SPED team.... then Sequoia Choice AZDL might be the right fit for your family.

What is your favorite hobby or activity outside of work?

My husband and I have 11 children and 11 grandchildren. My favorite thing to do is spend time with my family. Sunday dinners, holidays, weddings, celebrating accomplishments together, new grandbabies, fishing, hunting, camping, and traveling. Anything with family is my favorite thing to do!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be to Hawaii. I have never been there, and it is on my bucket list to explore. I have only heard good things about it, and the pictures are beautiful. My second choice of a place to travel would be to Alaska again. I have been there before, and it is SO beautiful that it makes you feel like you are standing in a picture!

Character Corner: Curiosity🤔

Why Curiosity Matters:

Curiosity encourages children to explore new interests, try unfamiliar activities, and ask thoughtful questions. During summer break, curiosity helps keep young minds active and engaged, turning everyday moments into opportunities for learning and discovery. Whether children are reading about a new topic, exploring nature, creating something imaginative, or learning a new skill, curiosity helps build creativity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

When children are encouraged to wonder, investigate, and explore, they become more independent thinkers and problem-solvers. Curiosity also helps children develop adaptability and resilience as they learn to embrace new experiences and step outside of their comfort zones.

By nurturing curiosity over the summer, families can help children stay mentally active while creating meaningful memories together. Small moments of exploration and discovery can spark interests that last a lifetime.

Creating a summer schedule doesn't have to be rigid. Aim for consistent times each day or week for reading, practicing math skills, or exploring new interests. A little structure goes a long way! Even 15–30 minutes a day of focused learning can help students return to school feeling confident and prepared.

Here are a few free websites students can use to stay sharp over the summer:

Khan Academy (www.khanacademy.org) – Free lessons in math, science, history, and more.

ReadTheory (www.readtheory.org) – Personalized reading comprehension practice.

Code.org (https://code.org/)– Fun and beginner-friendly coding activities for all ages.

National Geographic Kids (kids.nationalgeographic.com) – Engaging science and social studies exploration.

TypingClub (www.typingclub.com) – A great way to build keyboarding skills.

i-Ready (K-8) and myPath (9-12) - You can also practice math skills by accessing i-Ready (K-8) and myPath (9-12) through your Clever account. Here is a video that will show you how to get access: 👉 https://www.loom.com/share/b1a69c695c1b4bc59fc773910454d97f

Encourage your child to explore something they're curious about or to set a summer learning goal. A little planning now can make a big difference later!

Tonight is the first summer virtual open house!

https://edkey-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/U5Cd2HJnStibCUhnQNSAlQ