Maricopa Virtual Academy highlights math gains, e-glass tool in classroom spotlight

Maricopa Unified's May 13 meeting included a classroom spotlight on Maricopa Virtual Academy (MVA), where Principal Mitchell and teacher Miss Delgado described instructional changes that district staff say led to measurable math-skill gains.

Principal Mitchell said the school used targeted professional learning communities (PLCs) for singleton teachers and investments from the district vision budget to train staff on an "e-glass" instructional device. "It aligns with our district's strategic plan and Portrait of a Graduate," Mitchell said, describing steps to increase engagement and critical thinking.

Miss Delgado described a lesson on interpreting shape, center and spread in data, including breakout-room work and deliberate scaffolding to promote productive struggle. She said one class showed a "+109 increase in IXL," which the teacher said represents growth toward a grade-level standard. "This class demonstrated exceptional mathematical growth," Delgado said, and the principal added that the approach will expand to additional subjects next year.

Board members asked how the engagement strategies transfer across grades and content and praised the team's work; the board and superintendent commended staff for focusing professional development to match the digital learning environment. The district said it will expand AP offerings and permit some extracurricular participation on a case-by-case basis for virtual students.

The spotlight concluded with board appreciation and no action items attached.