Fawnia joined the PA Distance family when she was in 1st-grade because it was easier to keep up with her school work as she traveled to doctor’s appointments, surgeries, and other scheduling concerns that relate to her chronic health condition. Unaware at the time that there was a better option, Fawnia’s mother was referred to PA Distance from a friend and enrolled her daughter as a student.

“The teachers are really helpful and always help me get back on track if I get behind on work,” she said. “There’s a lot of flexibility and understanding from them.”

Fawnia has described how she is drawn towards art classes available at PA Distance. She has her own photography, painting, and wood carving business called FB Creations, and often attends craft fairs to sell her products. She wants to grow her business after graduating from PA Distance this coming spring. She plans to take elective classes in her last semester that will aid her in her goal and grow her knowledge involved in running her own business. 

“I want to take more art classes my last semester and have been thinking about going to art school,” she explained. “I am also going to take Economics and Hospitality and Tourism this spring.”

Fawnia was held back in kindergarten, after missing school because of many surgeries, and was able to catch up to her cohort year at PA Distance with the help of Graduation Recovery. Without the restrictions of a brick-and-mortar school, Fawnia is able to progress in her coursework while getting the medical attention she needs. 

“I was able to take extra classes and study in a way that worked for me,” she said. 

Fawnia is also serving as the Senior Editor, for the second year, for PA Distance’s Yearbook Club. In her role, she oversees the production of the yearbook and the other club members as they work on the contents and the design of each page. 

“I’ve always loved taking photos and editing things and it's exciting that I can help make the yearbook that everyone will see,” she said. 

She often submits her own digital photographs into the yearbook and has won awards at her local county fairs for her photographic talent, too. 

“I’m excited to graduate and have the opportunity to grow my business more,” she said. “I love this school. It’s changed my life for the better.”

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About PA Distance Learning Charter School

Since 2004, PA Distance has been providing a welcoming virtual learning environment for students in grades K-12 across Pennsylvania. Students at PA Distance engage in a blended environment that combines “synchronous” and “asynchronous” learning. PA Distance’s mission is to blend proven classroom teaching techniques with educational technologies to promote academic growth for all students.