About Us

Principal’s Corner

Flipping the Script for February

Dear Virtual Innovators Academy Families and Students,

We have officially crossed the finish line of the January Regents exams! I want to thank every student for their focus and every family for supporting them during that busy week.

During testing, the state rules require our staff to be "neutral" and  disinterested" to ensure a fair testing environment. We spent a week being quiet, formal, and strictly following the script. But now, we are flipping the script. As we move into February, we are shifting from "neutral" to deeply connected.

🌍 Celebrating Our Identities

Part of being "deeply connected" means seeing and honoring the whole student. This month, we embrace two major cultural moments:

🗣 Student Leadership: The 2026 Student Government

Speaking of connection, I am thrilled to announce our newly elected 2026 Student Government Officers! These students have stepped up to be the bridge between the student body and the administration. Please join me in congratulating them:

12th Grade – Class of 2026

President: Angello Manzanares
Vice President: Diane Hughes
Secretary: Gladianna Felisme
Treasurer: Nathan Angello

11th Grade – Class of 2027

President: Ilyas Awadh
Vice President: Kacper Tolpa
Secretary: Dana Hughes
Treasurer: Medrano Jaden Ethan

10th Grade – Class of 2028

President: Angello Manzanares
Vice President: Diane Hughes
Secretary: Gladianna Felisme
Treasurer: Nathan Angello

9th Grade – Class of 2029

President: Malak Alhudais
Vice President: Kazal Mubarez
Secretary: Mikayla Bolden
Treasurer: Lennix Rybushkina

💻 The "Ask": Why We Need Cameras On

Because we want to move from "testing mode" back to "community mode," you will hear us emphasize our Cameras On & Unmute culture. This isn't about compliance; it’s about connection. When your camera is on, you aren't just a name on a screen—you are a presence in the room. We want to see you, we want to hear you, and we want to know what you are thinking. We are interested in you.

❄ Mid-Winter Recess

Finally, as we approach the break, I hope you take this time to unplug and recharge. Whether you are celebrating, resting, or catching up, please stay safe. We look forward to seeing everyone back—cameras on and ready to learn—after the break!

Warmly,

Terri Grey
Principal, Virtual Innovators Academy

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