Online school. Done right.

December 3, 2025 – At Achievement House Cyber Charter School (AHCCS), we prepare students not just for graduation, but for the real world that comes after it. Every lesson, project, and virtual collaboration is designed to help students build the academic foundation and real-world skills they will need in college, careers, and beyond. But success doesn’t happen in isolation. One of the most powerful tools students can use to start shaping their future is networking – and thanks to LinkedIn’s Alumni feature, Achievement House students can begin doing that right now. Through LinkedIn, students can connect with Achievement House alumni who have gone on to colleges, careers, and opportunities across the country. These connections can spark mentorships, open doors to internships, and help students visualize what’s possible after high school. The AHCCS Alumni Association also provides opportunities for graduates to stay connected with their alma mater. One of the most valuable tools to start building your future network is LinkedIn’s Alumni feature. It allows you to connect with Achievement House graduates who have gone on to colleges, careers, and opportunities across the country. Why Networking Matters for Students Networking isn’t just for adults in the workforce; it’s a skill that benefits students long before they graduate. By connecting with others who share your interests, goals, or educational background, you gain valuable insight into potential career paths and learn how others have achieved success. For Achievement House students, this means: Discovering inspiration from graduates who have walked the same path. Learning about career options that align with your skills and interests. Finding mentors who can offer advice, share opportunities, and provide guidance as you plan your next steps. LinkedIn’s Alumni feature makes this process simple, interactive, and personal – all while connecting you to the AHCCS community that continues to grow long after graduation. Here’s how you can create or update your LinkedIn profile to start making connections. Step 1: Create or Update Your LinkedIn Profile Before diving into the alumni network, make sure your LinkedIn profile reflects your best self. This profile is your personal brand. It tells your story to potential mentors, colleges, and employers. Here’s how to get started: Add a professional photo. Choose a clear, friendly headshot with a simple background. List Achievement House Cyber Charter School as your current school. This ensures you will appear in the alumni network and makes it easier for others to find you. Highlight your interests and goals. Even if you don’t have a job yet, include your career aspirations, volunteer experiences, clubs, and school projects. Write a short summary in the “About” section describing who you are and what you’re interested in learning. Tip: If you have worked on a project you’re proud of, such as coding a website, creating digital art, or organizing a virtual event, add it under “Projects” to showcase your skills. Your LinkedIn profile is more than a resume – it’s a living, evolving portfolio of who you are and who you want to become. Step 2: Explore the AHCCS Alumni Network Once your profile is ready, it’s time to explore! Go to LinkedIn.com. In the search bar, type “Achievement House Cyber Charter School.” Make sure you follow the AHCCS profile. Click on the official AHCCS page (look for our logo and verified profile). Click the “Follow” button to stay updated on posts and news. Then, select the “Alumni” tab. This opens a powerful dashboard showing where AHCCS graduates are now – from their locations to their employers to their college majors. You can filter alumni by: Where they live: See which cities or regions Achievement House graduates call home. Where they work: Discover companies and organizations employing AHCCS alumni. What they studied: Explore how different majors and training paths lead to diverse careers. This tool transforms the AHCCS alumni network into a living map of opportunity and gives you real examples of how an Achievement House education can take you anywhere. Step 3: Connect and Learn Now comes the most rewarding part – reaching out. If you find an alumnus whose career path inspires you, send them a thoughtful, personalized message. Here’s a template to help you get started: “Hello, I’m a current student at Achievement House Cyber Charter School interested in pursuing a career in [your field of interest]. I saw that you’re an AHCCS alum working in this area and would love to learn more about your experience. Would you be open to sharing any advice or insights?” This simple, genuine message can open doors to meaningful conversations. Most alumni are happy to help. After all, they were once in your shoes. Networking tip: Always thank them for their time and follow up if they offer advice or resources. Building your professional network is about creating authentic, long-term relationships – not just collecting connections. Step 4: Stay Engaged and Keep Growing Networking isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing habit. Once you have connected with alumni, keep your profile active by: Sharing updates about your school projects or accomplishments. Commenting on AHCCS posts and congratulating alumni on their achievements. Following organizations or professionals in your areas of interest. Joining LinkedIn groups related to your future career path. As the AHCCS Alumni Association continues to grow, new opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and career exploration will emerge. Following the Achievement House page ensures you will stay updated on: Alumni success stories Career spotlights Internship and volunteer opportunities When you graduate, joining the Alumni Association helps you remain part of the community that shaped you – and pay it forward by mentoring future students. Why Networking Is Important Every professional story starts somewhere, and for Achievement House students, it starts with connection. The LinkedIn Alumni feature isn’t just a search tool; it’s a window into what’s possible. You will see AHCCS graduates thriving in technology, healthcare, education, business, and creative industries – proof that your potential has no limits. By taking the time to explore, connect, and engage, you’re investing in your future success. Whether your goal is college, career training, or starting your own business, the AHCCS alumni network can help guide your next steps. Each new connection brings you one step closer to the future you’re envisioning. Start now and discover how Achievement House alumni are leading the way in industries across the nation. Your Future Network Awaits At Achievement House, we believe that education should open doors – and with tools like LinkedIn, those doors are wide open. By connecting with AHCCS alumni today, you’re building the foundation for tomorrow’s opportunities. The world of work is changing fast, but one thing remains constant: relationships matter. Your future network starts with your Achievement House community. Follow Achievement House Cyber Charter School on LinkedIn and start exploring the Alumni tab today. The connections you make could shape your career for years to come.

• Alumni News

November 7, 2025 – A new article in the Journal of Advanced Academics, “Augmenting Gifted Education Through Artificial Intelligence: A Four-Dimensional Framework for AI Tutoring Integration” by Josh Ecker, Greg Eckert, and our own local IU gifted liaison and learning innovation specialist, Erin Cummings, presents a forward-looking vision for gifted education. This research aligns closely with Achievement House Cyber Charter School’s mission to deliver innovative, personalized learning experiences for gifted students across Pennsylvania. The article explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can be thoughtfully integrated into classrooms to support not only advanced academics, but also the social-emotional needs and unique learning profiles of gifted children. At Achievement House, we are especially proud that Cummings contributed her expertise to this national conversation. Her leadership continues to shape gifted education in our region, and this publication highlights her role in advancing ideas that matter deeply to families and students alike. Understanding the Needs of Gifted Learners in Cyber School The paper reminds us that gifted traits do not always correlate to academic success or personal balance. Many gifted students can at times exhibit characteristics such as: Asynchronous development: Advanced abilities in some areas but age-typical (or even delayed) skills in other areas. Perfectionism and sensitivity: Leading to stress or procrastination and avoidance of challenges. Low achievement despite high potential: Some gifted learners underperform when they are not sufficiently challenged or engaged. Intense curiosity and rapid learning: Requires flexible and responsive opportunities. These traits mean that even extremely capable students need specialized, thoughtful support – not just harder assignments, but learning environments that nurture creativity, critical thinking, and resilience. At Achievement House, our gifted education program focuses on personalized instruction, mentorship, and social-emotional growth tailored to each student’s needs. How AI Enhances Gifted Education: The Four-Dimensional Framework Ecker, Eckert, and Cummings propose that AI tutoring can help provide these supports across four dimensions: Affect (motivation and confidence): Gifted students may disengage or grow frustrated when tasks are too easy or too hard. AI tutors can recognize these moments and provide encouragement, hints, or pacing adjustments to help students stay motivated. Content (advanced material): AI can extend learning opportunities beyond grade level, providing advanced texts, math problems, or research materials tailored to student readiness and interests. Process (how students learn): Underachievement often stems from a lack of strategies, not ability. AI can prompt reflection (“Why did you solve it that way?”) or model alternative approaches, helping students grow as independent thinkers. Product (creative outcomes): AI can support authentic projects by giving feedback on drafts, suggesting new directions, or helping polish ideas. Students are encouraged to produce meaningful work that reflects both their ability and creativity. The key message: AI should not replace teachers or mentors, but it can amplify human guidance and provide the kind of ongoing feedback and challenge that gifted learners need to thrive in academic and emotional development. How Achievement House Brings Personalized Learning to Life At Achievement House, we see these dimensions as directly connected to the needs of our students: Motivation and confidence (affect): AI-powered tools can keep learners engaged and prevent dips into low achievement. Advanced access (content): Students can explore AI-enhanced enrichment activities that challenge them beyond grade-level expectations. Guiding inquiry (process): Reflection prompts and strategy modeling can help students build resilience, flexibility, and independence. Meaningful products (product): AI feedback loops can help students elevate their projects, turning good ideas into exceptional ones. Through our innovative approach to gifted education in cyber school, Achievement House ensures that every student receives personalized learning pathways and future-ready experiences that set them apart academically and personally. Teaching Ethical, Future-Ready Use of AI in Gifted Learning At Achievement House, we recognize that AI is not a passing trend – it's a transformative tool that is reshaping how students learn, think, and solve problems. For gifted learners, AI offers opportunities to go beyond traditional classroom boundaries, encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making. Our role is to: Teach students to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly. Embed ethics and integrity into every use of technology. Prepare students not just to use AI, but to lead in its effective and ethical application in college, careers, and society. Our focus on responsible AI use empowers gifted learners to become innovators and ethical digital citizens – skills that will define success in tomorrow’s workforce. What AI-Powered Learning Means for Gifted Students For parents, this research may feel abstract, but here’s what it means in practice for your child at Achievement House: They won’t just ‘get more work.’ AI can help us design enrichment that is deeper, more challenging, and more engaging, not just extra worksheets. Their confidence matters. AI tools can give your child encouragement and pacing that keeps them motivated, even when learning is hard. They will build thinking skills, not shortcuts. AI can prompt your child to reflect on how they learn, helping them become more independent problem-solvers. Their creativity will shine. Whether it’s a research paper, science project, or writing assignment, AI can help your child take their work further, polishing it into something they’ll be proud to share. They will be ready for the future. We’re not just teaching your child how to use technology — we’re preparing them to use it responsibly and confidently as leaders in the world they will inherit. If you’re the parent of a gifted student looking for a school that embraces innovation, personalized learning, and advanced opportunities, consider enrolling your child at Achievement House. Our online gifted education program provides flexible, individualized support designed to help every learner reach their full potential. Learn more about our school programs by enrolling today. Preparing Gifted Learners for the Future The framework from Ecker, Eckert, and Cummings is about more than technology. It’s about understanding gifted learners - their strengths, their struggles, and their potential – and using every tool available to help them thrive. We are proud of Cummings’ contribution to this important work and grateful for her leadership in our community. At Achievement House, we are committed to carrying these principles forward, preparing our students not only to succeed today, but to become the innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders of tomorrow.

• Gifted Education

October 29, 2025 – At Achievement House Cyber Charter School, leadership and community go hand in hand. Students don’t just learn, they lead. One of the best examples at our cyber school is the Student Ambassadors program, a dynamic leadership initiative where students take an active role in welcoming new peers, sharing their experiences, and shaping the school culture in a positive way. In a virtual learning environment, connection is everything. The Student Ambassadors help bridge the gap between new and returning students, making Achievement House feel like a community from day one. Through mentorship, collaboration, and consistent communication, Student Ambassadors play a vital role in helping every student feel supported and seen. Who Are Student Ambassadors? The Student Ambassadors are a nominated group of Achievement House students who serve as the school’s official welcome committee. Each year, teachers nominate students who have demonstrated leadership, responsibility, and a genuine willingness to help others. These students stand out not just for their academic achievements, but for their kindness, initiative, and ability to uplift their peers. Many ambassadors are returning members who loved the experience so much they wanted to continue giving back to our cyber school community. Their mission is simple but powerful: to connect, guide, and inspire other students. Whether it’s greeting new students at virtual orientation events or offering advice based on their own cyber school experiences, Student Ambassadors can make a lasting impression. Purpose of Student Ambassadors Program The Student Ambassadors program was created to build a stronger sense of community within a virtual school setting. While Achievement House offers live daily classes, flexible scheduling, and countless opportunities for engagement, joining a cyber charter school can still feel like a big transition – especially for students who are new to online learning. That’s where the ambassadors come in. Acting as peer mentors, they share their stories and practical tips with new students, offering reassurance and encouragement during those first few weeks of adjustment. Student Ambassadors are like friendly faces in the crowd. They have been in the same position as the new cyber school students, so they know what it’s like to start something new. Their perspective helps make that transition smoother. Why Student Ambassadors Matter in Cyber School Peer connections are a cornerstone of student success. While teachers and mentors provide academic guidance, students often learn best from one another’s experiences. The student ambassadors give new students a chance to hear directly from peers who have walked the same path and succeeded. During Launch Pad Orientation, ambassadors welcome incoming students and share their personal stories. These moments are often filled with valuable insights, from advice on managing schedules to tips for staying organized in a virtual classroom. Beyond orientation, the Ambassadors continue to play a role throughout the school year. They attend monthly meetings with staff members for training, planning, and group discussions. These sessions give ambassadors a space to collaborate, share ideas, and support one another as they grow into stronger leaders. The impact of the program extends far beyond introductions. For many students, their first interaction with an ambassador sets the tone for their entire Achievement House experience – one that is welcoming, supportive, and filled with possibility. The Role of a Student Ambassador Student ambassadors wear many hats. Their work goes beyond welcoming new students – it’s about fostering a culture of connection and belonging. Welcome New Students: Ambassadors attend Launch Pad sessions, where they introduce themselves, share advice, and help new students get comfortable with the online learning environment. Their stories remind new enrollees that success is within reach and that they’re joining a school where people care. Serve as Role Models: Ambassadors are positive examples of what it means to be an Achievement House student. They maintain good academic standing, display integrity in their interactions, and consistently demonstrate the school’s core values of respect, perseverance, and leadership. Engage in Leadership Development: Every month, ambassadors meet with staff to discuss ways to enhance the student experience. These meetings serve as a forum for sharing ideas, planning events, and supporting fellow Ambassadors. Supporting the School Community: Whether it’s helping a peer who’s struggling to adjust or participating in a virtual event, ambassadors embody the AHCCS spirit of service and connection. They are the bridge between students and staff – a reminder that community can thrive anywhere, even online. These responsibilities highlight how student ambassadors contribute to the overall success of the Achievement House community. Through their leadership, mentorship, and commitment to helping others, they play a key role in ensuring that every student feels welcomed, supported, and connected. How Student Ambassadors Are Selected Becoming a student ambassador is an honor. Because of the important role they play, participation is only by teacher nomination. Teachers look for students who: Consistently demonstrate leadership and initiative Are responsible and dependable Show empathy and a desire to help others Embody the positive values that define Achievement House While each ambassador’s journey is unique, one thing they all share is a commitment to giving back. Some are returning ambassadors, having already served in the program in previous years. Their experience helps strengthen the group and provides new members with peer guidance as they learn the ropes. Benefits of Being a Student Ambassador Serving as a student ambassador is rewarding and empowering. Students gain real-world skills and experiences that prepare them for future success – in college, careers, and life. Here are just some of the benefits: Leadership Development: Ambassadors practice leadership in action. From speaking at Launch Pad sessions to organizing initiatives, they learn how to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and take initiative. Resume and College Application Boost: Colleges and employers value leadership, responsibility, and service. Being a student ambassador demonstrates all three things. It shows a student’s commitment to community involvement, teamwork, and personal growth. Building Confidence: Public speaking, mentorship, and peer leadership all help build self-confidence. Ambassadors grow more comfortable sharing their ideas and taking on responsibility, setting them up for lifelong success. Community Service: Most importantly, ambassadors take pride in giving back. They leave a legacy that goes beyond academics – one rooted in kindness, leadership, and the belief that every student can thrive. The Student Ambassador program helps students grow into confident, capable leaders who are prepared for life beyond high school. By developing valuable skills and giving back to their community, Student Ambassadors make a lasting impact on Achievement House and their own future. How to Get Involved with Student Ambassadors Interested in becoming a Student Ambassador? The process starts with a conversation. For students, talk to your teachers if you’re interested in being nominated. Let them know you would like to get involved in leadership opportunities. For families, encourage your student to step into leadership roles. Programs like this build valuable skills and help students form meaningful connections that enrich their overall school experience. The first Student Ambassador meeting of the school year is typically held in mid-October, with monthly meetings continuing throughout the year. To learn more, reach out to the Student Ambassador Program Leader, or speak with your student’s teacher for details on how nominations work. Don’t forget, when you see or hear about one of our Student Ambassadors, take a moment to celebrate their achievement. Their leadership and dedication are a reflection of what makes Achievement House such a special place to learn and grow. Ambassadors Help Empower Other Cyber School Students The Student Ambassador program is part of Achievement House’s ongoing commitment to empowering students – not just academically, but personally. It complements other leadership efforts like the Student Voice program, where students share feedback and ideas to shape school initiatives. Together, these programs show that Achievement House is more than a cyber school – it’s a supportive, student-centered community that values connection, collaboration, and leadership. At Achievement House, students aren’t just learning from textbooks. They’re learning how to lead, how to empathize, and how to make an impact. That’s what the Student Ambassadors represent, and it’s what helps make Achievement House different.

• Student Ambassadors