How WAVA’s 8th Grade ELA & History Teacher Builds Community One Student at a Time

For Washington Virtual Academies (WAVA) 8^th-grade English Language Arts and History teacher, Andi Bernardoni, teaching is more than instruction. “Teaching is about connection, confidence, and helping students discover who they are,” said Mrs. Bernardoni. Based in Tacoma’s welcoming Proctor neighborhood, she brings warmth, experience, and heart to every virtual classroom she leads assisting students throughout the entire state of Washington. 

A Teaching Career Rooted in Experience and Adaptability 

Mrs. Bernardoni began teaching in 2000, spending time in classrooms across the country, including one and a half years in Tucson, Arizona, and later at a brick-and-mortar school near SeaTac airport. 

She joined WAVA in 2016, originally teaching 4th grade, and immediately fell in love with the online learning environment. After welcoming her son, she took a two-year break from teaching to focus on her family, returning full-time in 2022. 

Today, she appreciates the balanced schedule that WAVA provides, allowing her to continue doing what she loves while still volunteering, supporting families, and being fully present for her own children. 

“Teaching online allows me to show up for students in meaningful ways while also showing up for my family. It’s the best of both worlds,” she said. 

Creating Community Through South Sound Outings

One of her favorite parts of working at WAVA is helping students connect in person. She is actively involved in the South Sound Outings Club, led by fellow teacher Felicia Kern. She enjoys supporting monthly meetups for students and families and especially loves fall field days and spring outdoor games. She shared, “I love watching students grow, not just academically, but as leaders. It’s been so rewarding seeing returning students like Mauricio and Amina step up to guide others, run activities, and model teamwork.” 

Whether it’s coordinating games, cheering students on, or simply being there to listen, she believes these experiences help students build friendships that last beyond the school year. 

Shaping Growth Through Personal Connection and Creativity 

Mrs. Bernardoni’s approach to teaching is rooted in seeing every student as an individual. She brings patience, empathy, and creativity into each lesson, making sure students feel supported, whether they’re crafting an essay or exploring Washington State history. More than academics, she focuses on helping students grow into confident communicators and collaborators who believe in their abilities. For her, success isn’t defined solely by grades, but by watching students develop leadership skills, strengthen their voices, and recognize their own progress. 

Looking ahead, she hopes to launch a Yarn Art or Knitting Club to give students another outlet for expression and connection. She envisions a welcoming space where students can unwind, learn something new, and build friendships in a low-pressure environment. It’s one more way she hopes to bring joy and belonging to her students, whether they’re joining her virtually or meeting in person at future events.