About Our School
Meet Our Team
Cody Cunningham, Operations Manager
Before joining Stride, Mr. Cunningham worked as a staff development specialist for the state of West Virginia and as a social studies and history teacher at elementary, middle, and high schools in West Virginia and Florida. He holds a master's degree from Teachers College, Columbia University, specializing in the history of state educational systems. Beyond his academic interests, Mr. Cunningham enjoys the outdoors, snacking on Jelly Belly jellybeans, and being a proud uncle to his niece and nephew.
Cheryl Stahle, Academic Administrator
With more than 20 years in education, Ms. Stahle brings a passion for data-driven instruction to support families. This is her second Stride K12 school setting, and she is excited about the opportunity to bring a high-quality educational option to families in her home state of West Virginia.
Kalaina Wilson, Counselor
Ms. Wilson has been a school counselor since 2014 in Florida, Louisiana, and West Virginia. She loves working with students of all ages. Ms. Wilson helps students with their academic needs, social/personal needs, and college and career readiness. She is passionate about connecting and building relationships with students to help them be their best selves.
Allison Early, Kindergarten
Mrs. Early started her career as an NYC public school teacher in the South Bronx. She recently moved to West Virginia with her family and is thrilled to be a part of the new West Virginia Virtual Academy. She received her bachelor's and master's degrees from St. Joseph's College in New York. Mrs. Early earned degrees in general education, special education, and literacy. She has a passion for learning and teaching and can't wait to bring that passion alive to her students!
Samantha Burkett, 1st and 2nd Grade
One of Ms. Burkett's driving forces as a teacher is to challenge students academically and help them develop a love of learning. She has taught pre-K and 2nd grade. She is so excited to develop relationships with families and students this year!
Hannah Thompson, 3rd Grade
Ms. Thompson strives to create a safe and welcoming learning environment for every student. She obtained her Master of Education (MEd) degree in August 2021. She has worked in Title I public schools, private schools, and hybrid learning environments. Ms. Thompson is excited to dive into the world of virtual learning!
Courtney Estes, 4th Grade
Experienced in both brick-and-mortar and virtual learning platforms, Ms. Estes is excited to be a part of West Virginia Virtual Academy. She holds a master's degree in communications from Boston University and earned her elementary education certificate from the University of West Florida after many years of substitute teaching. Ms. Estes looks forward to bringing her students a supportive and personalized learning experience this year.
Malinda Blevins, 5th Grade
Ms. Blevins has several years of experience teaching in both hybrid and in-person learning environments. She obtained her bachelor's degree in elementary education and is currently working toward her master's degree in digital media. Ms. Blevins is excited to bring her love of learning and passion for creating engaging educational experiences to the young scholars of West Virginia.
Tonya Woods, Middle School Math and Spanish
Ms. Woods has 25 years of teaching experience in the classroom with middle and high school students. She is new to virtual teaching but is excited to learn along with the students. She earned her bachelor's degree from Marshall University and her master's degree from the University of Phoenix. Ms. Woods believes building relationships with her students is essential to helping them learn.
Jennifer Godfrey, Middle School ELA and Social Studies
Ms. Godfrey has more than 25 years of experience teaching in middle school. She has taught all academic subjects virtually and in the classroom. She likes to make the information relevant, so they can answer confidently, "Why do I have to learn this?" Ms. Godfrey is most looking forward to meeting and getting to know her students this year.
Kristian Bucklew, Special Education Teacher
Ms. Bucklew has worked in the West Virginia school system since 2010. She started as an aide subbing in various classrooms while she attended Fairmont State University to obtain her master's degree in education with a specialization in special education. She also received her endorsement in autism. Ms. Bucklew is looking forward to the school year to connect and build relationships that foster a love for education and learning.
Ruthie Sheets, Health and PE Teacher
With 17 years of teaching experience in both brick-and-mortar and virtual learning, Ms. Sheets is thrilled to be a part of West Virginia Virtual Academy. She holds a master's degree in secondary education and a master's degree in counseling, both from Marshall University. She also has a bachelor's degree in adult fitness from Marshall University and has earned her administration certification from Salem International University. Ms. Sheets is excited to make personalized connections with her students in a supportive and engaging educational experience.
Lorrie Broyles, High School English and Social Studies
Ms. Broyles has taught in West Virginia for more than 15 years, with experience in all grade levels focusing on music, social studies, and English. She graduated with her bachelor's degree from Concord University and then obtained her master's degree from Marshall University. Ms. Broyles looks forward to connecting with her students while teaching them how to be lifelong learners and successful adults.
Haley Rudd, CTE
Ms. Rudd has experience teaching business and career readiness classes to high school and middle school students. She is excited to help her students gain employability skills and technical knowledge and to connect with her students throughout the school year.
