WVVA Hosts First Ever Graduation: Celebrating the Class of 2025 

West Virginia Virtual Academy (WVVA) celebrated a historic milestone this May with its first-ever graduating class since opening in 2022. Held in person at the University of Charleston, the ceremony brought together students and families from across the state to honor 117 WVVA graduates. 

“This first graduating class represents so much more than academic success—it marks a new chapter in West Virginia education,” said Doug Cipoletti, Executive Director of WVVA. “Getting to see students from all parts—literally every county in the state—is really fantastic.” 

Since its founding, WVVA has grown rapidly from 400 students to more than 2,000 in just three years. Originally serving only kindergarten through tenth grade, WVVA now offers K–12 and supports learners across all 55 counties, providing a tuition-free, virtual public charter school experience. 

The Pioneering Class 

“West Virginia has really done a great job of being a role model to other states. We’re very forward-thinking in how we are doing education,” said Cipoletti. “I think we’ll continue to see growth. I’d like to see more students taking advantage of our career certification pathways or our agreement with Pierpont Community College, where students can earn dual credit.” 

That means students can graduate high school having already earned college credit—or even an associate degree—at no cost. “We cover all those fees while they’re in high school,” Cipoletti said. “That gives students a major leg up. Whether they want to go straight into the workforce or pursue a four-year degree, they’re ready.” 

Many WVVA students are already doing just that—pursuing college, career training, or military service. Several graduates even received the state’s Promise Scholarship, a testament to the strong academic foundation WVVA provides. 

Student Trailblazers 

The Class of 2025 was full of trailblazers. Averi, who recently enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, shared how WVVA gave her a much-needed reset. “Going online was the best option,” she said. “The teachers are nice, there’s no bullying, and I had the time and space I needed to focus on what matters. WVVA prepared me well.” 

Allyson, founding president of WVVA’s National Honor Society and part of the graduation planning team, reflected on the importance of the moment. “I think it’s super cool to be the first graduating class,” she said. “We get to be the example for all the classes that come after us. It’s something really special.” 

Skylar, a senior from Huntington, appreciated how virtual learning gave her the flexibility to balance school and work. “It’s at home and where I’m employed. It was a lot easier,” she said. “I could go to my classes at work, or I could just tell them, ‘Hey, I’m going to be at work,’ and have all my stuff done by the end of the day.” 

Connected Virtual Community 

WVVA’s leaders say the success of the Class of 2025 proves that online learning works—and it builds real community. 

“These are the students who said, ‘I want to do school on my own terms, at home, in the comfort of my own environment,’” said Cipoletti. “They took a chance on a new model of learning, helped build a school community that’s flexible, supportive, and committed to excellence—and now they’re leaving a legacy.” 

Cheryl Stahle, WVVA’s Academic Administrator, shared in that pride. “To see this group of students walk across the stage is incredibly special,” she said. “They are trailblazers. From launching clubs and honor societies to pursuing military service and college goals, our graduates have shown the power of personalized learning. They’ve set the tone for what WVVA can be.” 

WVVA is proud of the Class of 2025 and looks forward to many more milestones ahead! 

To learn more, visit wvva.k12.com. 

Back to Blog