LC Spotlight: Carolyn Ames (Student: Cory Ames, Senior SY2025/26) 

Learning Coach Spotlight: How a Colorado Mom Helped Her Son Thrive Through Virtual Learning 

For Carolyn, choosing the right school for her son was never about following a trend, it was about paying attention. 

“Like many parents, I used to believe there was only one ‘right’ way to do school,” Carolyn said. “Then, I started paying closer attention to what my child actually needed.” 

A Colorado Springs–based working parent, Carolyn has worked remotely since her son, Cory, was just three years old. Even before the pandemic, she found herself wondering whether a traditional, in-person high school would truly be the best fit, especially as concerns around school safety continued to make headlines nationwide. Still, she knew any decision about learning from home had to be made thoughtfully and collaboratively. 

“Convenience couldn’t be the reason,” she said. “Cory had to be comfortable with it too.” 

Finding the Right Fit 

When schools shifted during the pandemic, online learning wasn’t a major adjustment for their family. Cory began virtual classes through his local middle school in the spring of sixth grade, and by the following fall, one thing became clear: consistency mattered more than location. 

In eighth grade, they began exploring longer-term options and discovered Destinations Career Academy of Colorado (CODCA). Almost immediately, Cory found his stride. 

“He enjoyed his classes, connected with his teachers, and became more confident managing his own learning,” Carolyn said. “It was one of the best decisions we’ve made.” 

The academic conversation stayed open, and during Cory’s freshman year, he expressed interest in possibly returning to in-person school to experience a more traditional high school setting. Carolyn supported him, and they began the transition process. But after attending orientation, Cory had a change of heart. 

“Seeing the contrast firsthand helped him realize what he already had,” she explained. “This time, the decision was entirely his, and we chose to re-enroll for his Senior CODCA year.” 

Growing Independence and Confidence 

Cory has taken full ownership of his learning. Carolyn credits online education with helping him build responsibility, time management, and confidence. 

“He knows how to meet deadlines, manage his workload, and recognizes when he needs to push through or take a break,” she said. 

Outside of coursework, Cory spends time on coding projects, 3D printing, and exploring interests that would be difficult to fit into a traditional seven- or eight-hour school day. For Carolyn, that balance has been key. 

“The autonomy matters,” she adds. “The trust matters more.” 

Cory agrees. When asked what sets CODCA apart, he points to the Career and College Prep program, which allows students to explore multiple pathways while still in high school, including the opportunity to take advantage of concurrent enrollment and building college credits. 

“It gives us the freedom to explore different fields,” Cory shared. “I also love how efficient the online format is as I can finish my schoolwork and still have time every day for hobbies and personal interests.” 

Online Community Connection  

One of the most common misconceptions Carolyn and Cory hear about online school is that it lacks social interaction, but their experience has been the opposite. 

“CODCA’s teachers are engaging, and the live online classes are really interactive,” they explained. “The school offers tons of ways to connect for both Learning Coach and student, both online and through in-person events across the state!” 

From Carolyn’s perspective as a Learning Coach, communication has been a consistent strength. “I stay informed through emails and newsletters, check Cory’s grades regularly, and celebrate his progress. His teachers are proactive, encouraging, and supportive, and most importantly, as deadlines approach.” She added. 

Ready for What’s Next 

Perhaps the most meaningful outcome of Cory’s journey is what comes next. Through CODCA, college stopped feeling abstract and started feeling attainable.  

A visit to the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) helped Cory envision himself as a college student. He’s since been accepted to both UCCS and Colorado State University Fort Collins (CSU) and will be attending CSU as of the fall of 2026. 

As a parent, that’s exactly what Carolyn hoped for. “He feels ready, confident, and is excited,” she said. “Choosing CODCA wasn’t about avoiding something; it was about choosing what works. Personalization didn’t lower expectations; it raised them. Trust didn’t reduce accountability, it strengthened it.” 

For Cory and his family, virtual education wasn’t just an alternative. It was the right path forward.

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