Student Spotlight: How Brynn and Cora Found Confidence and Community at WVVA — and on the NICA Trails 

Students Brynn and Cora have discovered a powerful combination: the flexibility and support of West Virginia Virtual Academy (WVVA) and the grit that comes from racing with their local National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) team. Together, school and sport have helped them grow in confidence, community, and purpose. 

A Flexible Path to Learning at West Virginia Virtual Academy 

After attending brick-and-mortar school through fifth grade, Cora joined WVVA for her 6th grade year—and she’s already thriving. 

“We decided to switch to WVVA because living in a very rural area can limit educational opportunities,” said her mom, Erin. “At WVVA Cora has access to certified teachers, more options for classes, and support services that aren’t always available in nearby schools.” 

Brynn, now starting high school, spent middle school at WVVA. In a rough season, WVVA’s personalized online learning became the right fit, helping Brynn rebuild confidence and rediscover her drive. She’s since transitioned back to a local brick-and-mortar school, carrying those gains with her. 

Brynn’s mom, Carrie, agrees that WVVA was the right choice. 

“WVVA gave Brynn the flexibility and support she needed to balance her academics with her passion,” she said, “She gained so much confidence through that experience, and it helped her feel ready to step back into in-person learning for high school this year.” 

Not only was Brynn uplifted by WVVA, but it allowed her more time for her passions. 

“The scheduling at WVVA allowed Brynn to have time for things in-person school just doesn’t,” Carrie added. “Not having to travel back and forth to school, gave her more time to focus on cycling and things she loves.” 

Balancing Online School and NICA Racing Through WVVA 

Cora and Brynn ride with the Cheat Mountain Salamanders, their local NICA team founded in 2019 by Cora’s dad, Chad, who serves as head coach.  

NICA is a co-ed, national youth development organization with a mission to build a stronger mind, body, and character through mountain biking. They teach a set of principles that guide how teams compete and build community, allowing students to grow on and off the bike – something Cora and Brynn can both attest to.  

West Virginia’s NICA league has 22 teams across the state, and during race season, Cora and her family often travel to places like Canaan Valley, Big Bear Lake, and Grand Vue Park.  

Cora’s favorite spot to ride? The Green Bank Observatory trail system—with safe, car-free paths and sweeping mountain views. 

“I like that I can take a break to ride my bike then come back ready to learn,” Cora said. 

WVVA makes it all possible without missing a beat. 

“Cora can keep up with her classes wherever we are—including traveling the state on race weekends,” Erin said, “Other days she’s out on her bike at lunch.” 

That flexibility has powered a standout year for both riders. Brynn capped the season ranked in the top five statewide in the JV3 Girls division, including a first-place finish at North Bend State Park’s “Defend the Bend” after battling back from a mid-season injury. Cora’s first year was equally encouraging—she consistently placed in the top ten among 6th Grade Girls, showing steady growth and determination from start to finish. 

WVVA Teachers and Clubs Help Students Build Confidence and Community 

Cora says WVVA’s teachers and extracurriculars have made a big difference. 

“My teachers are really nice,” she said. “Ms. Howe teaches History, and she is so nice and calm. She lets us share about our interests and always asks how my races went.” 

One of the highlights of Cora’s WVVA experience has been her involvement in clubs—cooking and art—giving her a sense of belonging and an outlet for her creativity. 

“She really likes the clubs because they’re one-on-one, informal and her teachers are really great.” Erin said, “She has been making recipes during lunch and bringing me them. They made mini pizzas the other day!” 

“Last week at cooking club we made pizza, and mine turned out really good,” Cora said. 

Erin sees the positive impact daily. 

“Her teachers are really patient and work with her at her own pace,” she said. “She’s building confidence both in her schooling and as she races.” 

Beyond classes, Erin emphasizes how WVVA connects students from all 55 counties, allowing Cora to form new friendships and connections. 

WVVA Students Build Strength and Confidence Through Online Learning and Cycling 

For Brynn and Cora, WVVA and NICA work in tandem. The structure and support of online learning help them train, travel, and compete; the resilience and self-discipline from cycling flow back into school. 

“Racing and online learning have worked hand in hand for Cora,” Erin said. “She’s learning that she can take on hard things and realizing she’s capable of so much more than she thought.” 

Their stories show how flexibility, family support, and personalized learning can power both healing and high performance—fueling confidence and community, one class and one ride at a time. 

Is West Virginia Virtual Academy the right fit for your family? 

Discover how West Virginia Virtual Academy helps students thrive—on and off the trail. Learn how to enroll today! 

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