Felicia Kern is Shaping the Future of Online CTE with Field Trips, Guest Speakers and AI

A Leader Driving Innovation at WAVA

At Washington Virtual Academies (WAVA), Felicia Kern embodies the spirit of innovation, connection and community. Based in Puyallup, Washington, Felicia has become a powerhouse leader in career and technical education (CTE) and a driving force behind making virtual learning more interactive, inclusive and inspiring.

Creative Ways to Build Student Community

Mrs. Kern is known for her creative approach to organizing outings, often securing local libraries as free meeting spaces and finding fresh ways to connect students beyond the screen.

Most recently, on Oct. 10th, 2025, she hosted an incredible field trip to the Seattle Woodland Park Zoo, where more than 100 students and Learning Coaches gathered for an unforgettable hands-on learning experience. Her goal in 2025 is to expand these opportunities even further by increasing field trips that include grant funding, ensuring that all students can access enriching, real-world learning experiences.

“It was such a great day seeing students and families connect in person reminds us how powerful these experiences can be,” Mrs. Kern said.

Bringing Real-World Voices Into Virtual Learning

Every Wednesday this school year, Mrs. Kern is bringing in new voices to inspire and educate students. Her goal is to host weekly guest speakers throughout the first semester, all 100% virtual through WAVA’s online platform. So far, sessions have featured thought-provoking presenters, including a team from USAFacts.org, who shared insights on data literacy and civic awareness with WAVA students. To prepare her students for each session, Mrs. Kern uses an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) resource called TeachSuite.

“I use the interactive lesson builder each week to create a lesson that gives BPA students background and context before our guest arrives,” she said. “It’s been an awesome addition to my teaching practice.”

Guiding WAVA Through a Major Canvas Transition

As one of two Canvas super users at WAVA, Mrs. Kern has taken the lead in helping the school transition to the new learning platform, a process she calls “a big learning curve but an incredible accomplishment.”

“I’m so proud of our staff for taking this on,” she said. “Everyone is learning together, and it’s making a huge difference for our students.” Her third 2025 goal focuses on fully implementing Canvas across the school to streamline communication, boost accessibility and improve the overall student experience.

“It’s been a year of transition, but the excitement from students and staff keeps us motivated,” Mrs. Kern said.

Supporting Student Leadership and Schoolwide Clubs

Mrs. Kern also serves as the advisor for WAVA’s Business Professionals of America (BPA) program, which currently has more than 60 active students participating virtually. The team is in the middle of a two-week membership drive to encourage even more participation this year. She’s also preparing to relaunch the Middle School Book Club in November, one of several schoolwide clubs set to make a comeback as new platforms are fully established.