The PALCS Winging It Podcast

Winging It Podcast: Competitive Swimming and Art

In this episode of Winging It, Claire Roussakis shares her compelling journey from her early days in the water to her impressive commitment to Virginia Tech’s Division 1 swimming program 🏊‍♀️. Claire discusses her intense training routine, her favorite competitive events, and how she navigated a pivotal transition to a cyber school environment to manage her struggles with anxiety. The conversation dives into her artistic hobbies, her future aspirations in psychology and coaching, and how a flexible foundation allowed her to prioritize her mental well-being while staying focused on her elite athletic and long-term career goals. At the Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School, we take pride in seeing our community members follow unique pathways, balancing their evolving interests with the skills needed to thrive in any industry. Whether you are seeking an online high school in Pennsylvania to accommodate demanding athletic training or looking for a supportive virtual school that prioritizes student well-being, Claire's story highlights the power of adaptable education. 💻 Learn more about our PA cyber charter school programs and flexible learning opportunities at 👉 www.palcs.org #PALCS #StudentSuccess #CareerJourneys #OnlineSchoolPA #StudentAthlete #D1Bound #MentalHealthMatters #PACyberSchool

Winging It Podcast: Ice Hockey, Golf and Construction

In this episode of Winging It, Nick Fritz 🏒 shares his compelling journey from the high-energy world of ice hockey to the precision of the golf course and his current career in construction. Nick discusses his early passion for hockey, the mental and physical transition to golf, and how he’s now building a future in the construction industry. The conversation dives into his drive for professional development, the importance of personal growth, and how a flexible foundation allowed him to pivot between passions while staying focused on his long-term goals. At the Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School, we take pride in seeing our community members follow unique pathways, balancing their evolving interests with the skills needed to thrive in any industry. 💻 Learn more about our online high school programs and flexible learning opportunities at 👉 www.palcs.org [http://www.palcs.org]

Winging It Podcast: Teaching Elementary School Online (part 2)

In Part 2 of this episode, PALCS elementary teachers discuss how connection, communication, and community are built within a PA cyber charter school environment. From virtual clubs and in-person field trips to direct communication through Canvas, Zoom, and phone calls, this conversation highlights how online elementary school students in Pennsylvania stay engaged and supported. This model demonstrates how intentional design in an online charter school environment can drive both engagement and student success. Learn more about PALCS: https://www.palcs.org [https://www.palcs.org]

Winging It Podcast: Teaching Elementary School Online (part 1)

In Part 1 of this episode of Winging It, PALCS educators Mr. Cooper and Mr. Packer share an authentic look at teaching in a virtual classroom. From “daddy school” at home to creative strategies that keep students engaged—like interactive games, rewards, and relationship-building—this conversation highlights the real work behind effective online instruction. You’ll also hear how PALCS teachers use tools like Zoom and breakout rooms to create collaborative, meaningful learning experiences, while supporting student confidence and growth. At PALCS, a PA cyber charter school, these approaches are central to delivering high-quality, personalized K-12 online learning in Pennsylvania.

Winging It Podcast: Sea Cadets and the Naval Academy

In this episode of Winging It, PALCS senior Liam McKelvey shares how his experience at a PA cyber charter school helped prepare him for acceptance into the United States Naval Academy. He discusses the competitive admissions process, his leadership journey through Sea Cadets, international training opportunities, and the physical and academic preparation required for military service. This conversation highlights how flexible K-12 online learning in Pennsylvania can empower students to pursue unique interests while building strong academic foundations and leadership skills for the future. Learn more about Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School at www.palcs.org [http://www.palcs.org]