The PALCS Winging It Podcast

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

Winging It Podcast: AI in Education

AI is already shaping the future of education. In this episode of Winging It, we talk with Andrea Claver from the EDSAFE AI Alliance and Dr. Courtney Kofelt Grove from PALCS about how schools can move from reacting to AI to leading with purpose.
As a Pennsylvania-based K-12 online public school, PALCS is uniquely positioned to help shape how AI is implemented in a cyber school environment. We discuss AI literacy, the SAFE framework, policy labs, teacher support, and how to ensure AI enhances learning rather than replaces critical thinking.
If you are a parent, educator, or policymaker interested in AI in education or virtual K-12 schools in PA, this episode provides practical insight and real-world experience.

Winging It Podcast: Cheerleading, Dance & Performing Arts with Morgan Sleet

In this episode of Winging It, we sit down with Morgan Sleet, a 9th-grade student at PALCS, to talk about her busy life as a student-athlete, performer, and active community member.
Morgan shares her experience balancing a demanding schedule that includes virtual classes, junior varsity cheerleading for the Meadville Bulldogs, and rehearsals with her ballet company, Oil Region Ballet. She discusses the nuances of her various roles, from the physical strength required as a "base" in cheerleading stunting to the expressive artistry needed for characters like the Rat King in The Nutcracker. Morgan also highlights her involvement in the Key Club and how she stays motivated while living in the snowy town of Meadville.
This conversation highlights how PALCS supports students through a flexible online environment that allows them to pursue their passions in athletics and the arts while maintaining a rigorous academic schedule.
 
🌐 Learn more about our PA Online Charter School: https://www.palcs.org
 
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #OnlineSchool #VirtualSchool #K12OnlineLearningInPennsylvania #CyberSchool #StudentAthlete #PerformingArts #WingingItPodcast #OnlineEducation #MeadvillePA #StudentSuccess

Winging It Podcast: Outreach, Engagement, and Enrollment

What is it really like to enroll in a PA cyber charter school?
In this episode of the Winging It Podcast, we talk with Emmi Thurston and Danielle Kennedy from PALCS Customer Service and Engagement about how families can start K-12 online learning in Pennsylvania.
They break down PALCS info sessions, the step-by-step enrollment process, and how the school supports students from kindergarten through 12th grade. You will also hear about mid-year transfers, the materials students receive, and how PALCS supports students who need flexibility for health, travel, advanced academics, or personal goals.
If you are considering an online elementary, middle, or high school in Pennsylvania, this episode offers a friendly and informative look at how a PA Online Charter School helps families make a smooth transition.
 
Learn more at www.palcs.org
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #PAOnlineSchool #K12OnlineLearning #SchoolChoice #CyberSchool #VirtualSchool #OnlineEducation

Winging It Podcast: Parenting and School Choice with Kelly Buterbaugh

🎧 In this episode of Winging It, we sit down with Kelly, a PALCS parent, to talk about her family’s educational journey, school choice, and supporting children who are both autistic and gifted.
Kelly shares how online learning in Pennsylvania has provided the flexibility, structure, and individualized support her children need to succeed. From navigating special education services to finding the right learning environment, this episode highlights the real-life impact of K–12 cyber education.
Learn more about PALCS, a PA Online Charter School serving students statewide, at https://www.palcs.org.
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #OnlineSchool #VirtualSchool #K12CyberSchool #WingingItPodcast #SchoolChoice #SpecialEducation

Winging It Podcast: Careers in the Arts with CPFA Alumni

In this special episode, four graduates of The Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School (PALCS) join us after a run of shows of Into The Woods at SALT Performing Arts to share how their time at the Center for Performing and Fine Arts (CPFA) shaped their education, confidence, and career paths.
Their stories span dance, theatre, teaching, choreography, community arts, and service—and each of them speaks to the power of learning in a flexible PA cyber school environment that supports creativity, individuality, and well-being.
They discuss: • The teachers and mentors who changed the direction of their lives • How CPFA’s arts training built both skill and confidence • Balancing academics with intensive performing arts commitments • The friendships and community that still matter to them today • How K–12 online learning in Pennsylvania opened doors to new opportunities • Their current careers and what they wish students knew about pursuing the arts
Whether you’re a student exploring the arts, a parent considering a virtual charter school in PA, or an educator interested in how community thrives in online learning, this conversation is full of insight, gratitude, and inspiration.
🌐 Learn more about PALCS and CPFA: www.palcs.org
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #CPFA #CPFAFam #WingingItPodcast #K12OnlineLearning #AlumniSpotlight #PerformingArtsEducation

Winging It Podcast: Dual Enrollment & Musical Theatre with Jo Hughes

🎧 In this episode, we sit down with Jo Hughes, a senior at PALCS and CPFA (Center for Performing Arts at PALCS), who shares her incredible journey navigating high school while simultaneously pursuing an Associate of Arts degree at Delaware County Community College (DCCC). She discusses how the flexible nature of online learning at
PALCS allowed her to excel academically and immerse herself in the performing arts.
 
We hear about:
Her involvement in the arts, which includes playing the Witch in Into the Woods at DCCC and winning Best Comic Actress at the Cappie Awards for her role as the Nurse in Romeo and Juliet.
Her leadership as the President of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and Chairperson of the Friday Night Cafe committee, which has doubled attendance and raised funds for the music department.
Her ambitious plans to apply to over 30 schools to pursue a BFA in Musical Theater after graduating with her Associate's degree.
Why she is a fierce advocate for School Choice and the life-changing opportunities PALCS has provided her.
 
🌟 Jo is truly a testament to what dedicated students can achieve through the power of choice and flexibility in education.
 
🌐 Learn more: palcs.org
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #WingingItPodcast #CPFA #DualEnrollment #OnlineLearning #MusicalTheater #StudentSuccess #PerformingArts #TriMMusicHonorSociety #SchoolChoice

Winging It Podcast: Grief, Healing & Your Voice Heard with Dr. Marilyn Pendelton

Dr. Pendelton shares how unprocessed grief affects our health, classrooms, and communities—and how The Grief Recovery Method® helps students, parents, and educators heal and grow. Learn how PALCS partners with Your Voice Heard to bring trauma-informed practices and emotional wellness into online learning across Pennsylvania. 🌿
💛 Whether you’re an educator, parent, or student, this episode reminds us that grief isn’t a flaw to fix—it’s a natural response to change, and healing begins when every voice is heard.
🌐 Learn more: palcs.org | urvoiceheard.com
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #WingingItPodcast #GriefRecovery #StudentWellness #OnlineEducation #YourVoiceHeard #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingTogether #VirtualCharterSchool

Winging It Podcast: Cycling & Automotive Club with Sam and Judah

🎧 In this episode, meet Judah and Sam, seniors at PALCS and members of the University Scholars Program (USP), whose shared love of engineering, adventure, and friendship has taken them on an unforgettable journey — literally. 🚲🌍
Judah and Sam share:
• How their two-week, 1,000-mile bike trip from Pennsylvania to Canada challenged their endurance, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• The planning, gear, and grit that went into preparing for the trip — from daily route logistics to fueling their ride (and where they found the best poutine 🍟)
• How PALCS’s flexibility and support allowed them to balance academics with ambitious hands-on projects like their long-distance ride
• Their work with the PALCS Automotive Club — from building and tuning go-karts to taking on a real car rebuild project
• How these experiences sparked their interest in mechanical and civil engineering, inspiring future careers built on innovation and persistence
You’ll also hear how their sense of humor, curiosity, and drive keep them learning outside the classroom — whether they’re crossing borders on bikes or turning wrenches in the garage. 🛠️
Whether you’re a student drawn to engineering, project-based learning, or adventure, this episode highlights how PALCS empowers students to explore their passions, take initiative, and build real-world skills that go the distance.
🌐 Learn more about our virtual K–12 school in Pennsylvania: https://www.palcs.org
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #OnlineLearning #STEM #Engineering #AutomotiveClub #StudentSuccess #WingingItPodcast #VirtualHighSchool #CyberSchool #PALCSLife #ProjectBasedLearning

Winging It Podcast: Balancing Physics, Music & Leadership with Juliette Tenebruso

🎧 In this episode, meet Juliette Tenebruso, a senior at PALCS, who is exploring the intersections of STEM, music, and leadership. 🌌🎶Juliette shares:
● How PALCS’s fully virtual programs, including the University Scholars Program (USP) and CPFA, allow her to pursue advanced physics research and music production simultaneously
● Her experience in the Stanford Research Program, inspiring women in physics, learning Python, and exploring theoretical physics and potential careers at NASA or in academia
● The joy of creating music—writing, performing, producing, and collaborating on projects remotely with fellow CPFA students
● Leading Mu Alpha Theta, PALCS’s new Math Honor Society chapter, from organizing events to planning competitions and inviting STEM guest speakers
● Participating in PALCS’s AI committee to help shape AI policy, teach responsible AI use, and balance technology with critical thinking
You’ll also hear Juliette’s personal reflections on growth, curiosity, and problem-solving, from tutoring peers in math and physics to balancing the creativity of music with the rigor of science. Plus, she gives us fun takes on waffles vs. pancakes, hot dogs vs. sandwiches, and the ultimate pineapple-on-pizza debate. 🍕
Whether you’re a student looking to explore STEM, music, or leadership opportunities, or a parent considering online education in Pennsylvania, this episode highlights how PALCS helps students pursue their passions and develop real-world skills.
🌐 Learn more about our virtual K-12 school in Pennsylvania: https://www.palcs.org
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #VirtualHighSchool #OnlineSchool #K12CyberSchool #STEM #MusicProduction #MathHonorSociety #AI #StudentSuccess #WingingItPodcast

Winging It Podcast: Elementary School Counseling at PALCS

In this episode of Winging It, meet Jessica Kirk, a member of the Elementary School Counseling Team at the Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School (PALCS). Discover how our counselors help K–5 students navigate academics, friendships, and personal growth — all within a flexible online learning environment.
Learn how they:🌟 Support emotional wellness and resilience🤝 Collaborate with families and teachers📘 Guide students toward academic and social success
At PALCS, we’re committed to helping every child feel connected, confident, and cared for.
🎧 Tune in now, and learn more at www.palcs.org.
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #WingingItPodcast #K12OnlineLearning #SchoolCounseling #ElementaryEducation

Winging It Podcast: Mock Trial with the University Scholars Program

🎙️ Welcome to Season 2 of the Winging It Podcast!
 
In this episode, meet members of the University Scholars Program Mock Trial team at PALCS, where students step into the courtroom to sharpen their skills in law, debate, and critical thinking. ⚖️
Our students share:
How PALCS’s flexibility allows them to pursue Mock Trial alongside their rigorous academics
What it’s like preparing for competitions through preseason scrimmages, tournaments at LaSalle and Penn, and district championships
The thrill of objections, cross-examinations, and finding small but powerful details in affidavits
How Mock Trial builds confidence, teamwork, and public speaking skills that extend far beyond the courtroom
 
You’ll also hear inspiring growth stories—like students discovering their passion for law, overcoming nerves, and even transforming from shy witnesses into confident attorneys delivering closing arguments.
 
Whether you’re a student curious about extracurriculars or a parent exploring online education in Pennsylvania, this episode highlights the unique opportunities and real-world skills students gain through PALCS.
 
🌐 Learn more about our virtual K-12 school in Pennsylvania: https://www.palcs.org
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #VirtualHighSchool #OnlineSchool #K12CyberSchool #MockTrial #StudentSuccess #WingingItPodcast

Winging It Podcast: Competitive Rowing with John Walish

Welcome to Season 2 of the Winging It Podcast!
In this episode of Winging It, meet John Walish, a student of the University Scholars Program at PALCS whose path blends academic excellence with competitive rowing. 🚣‍♂️
John shares:
How PALCS provides the flexibility to balance rigorous academics with high-level athletics
The importance of mental preparation, teamwork, and discipline in rowing
His journey to winning Gold at the Mid-Atlantic Championships
How effort and commitment in sports mirror personal growth and success in school
Whether you’re a student pursuing athletics alongside academics or a parent considering online education in Pennsylvania, John’s journey shows the power of dedication, flexibility, and opportunity at PALCS.
🌐 Learn more about our virtual K-12 school in Pennsylvania: https://www.palcs.org
 
#PALCS #PACyberCharterSchool #VirtualHighSchool #OnlineSchool #K12CyberSchool #Rowing #StudentSuccess #WingingItPodcast

Winging It Podcast: STEM and Music with Brendan McGrath

In this inspiring episode of Winging It, we sit down with Brendan McGrath, PALCS and CPFA alum, automotive engineer, and lifelong musician. Brendan shares his unique journey from struggling in traditional school settings to thriving at PA Leadership Charter School’s cyber and performing arts programs.
Learn how PALCS’ flexible K-12 online learning in Pennsylvania and CPFA’s creative environment helped Brendan balance his passion for music with his STEM dreams, ultimately leading to a career in the automotive industry and a master’s in engineering.
🎧 Tune in for advice on balancing creativity with academics, succeeding in STEM, and making the most of your cyber school experience!
#PALCS #PACyberSchool #OnlineHighSchoolInPennsylvania #VirtualCharterSchool #K12OnlineLearning #CyberSchoolSuccess

Winging it Podcast: Chief Academic Officer with Dr. Joey Rider-Bertrand

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Joey Rider-Bertrand to PALCS as our new Chief Academic Officer! With decades of experience in K-12 education—including gifted instruction, high school teaching, and curriculum development—Dr. Joey shares her passion for STEM, personalized learning, and the future of K-12 online education in Pennsylvania.
Her leadership is helping shape the next chapter for our PA cyber charter school, serving students in our cyber elementary, cyber middle, and cyber high school programs across the state.
🎧 Tune in to learn how PALCS continues to lead the way in virtual K-12 education in PA.
#PALCSPodcast #CyberSchool #OnlineCharterSchool #PAOnlineSchool#VirtualCharterSchoolsInPA #K12CyberSchool #EducationalLeadership #STEMEducation

Winging It Podcast: PALCS CEO, Dr. Karla Johnson

🎙️ In this episode of the Winging It podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Karla Johnson—now officially CEO of PALCS.
Dr. Johnson shares her path to educational leadership, what drives her passion for student success, and her bold vision for the future of K–12 online learning in Pennsylvania. Whether you're part of the PALCS community or simply interested in the future of cyber charter schools, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a glimpse of what’s ahead.
🔗 Learn more at palcs.org
#WingingItPodcast #PACyberSchool #CyberCharterSchool#PALCS #K12OnlineLearning #LeadershipInEducation #VirtualSchool

Winging It Podcast: Senior Year, CPFA, & High School Graduation

🎥 In this episode of the Winging It podcast, meet Sky Saul, a talented student from PALCS who’s embracing the world of performing arts and preparing for an exciting future at the University of Alabama.
Sky shares how her journey to CPFA was influenced by her sister’s experience and her own passion for dance. After adapting to online learning during COVID and seeking a fresh start away from bullying, Sky found her place at the Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School. Here, she discovered a supportive community that helped her grow both as a performer and as an individual.
🎭 Highlights from the interview include:💃 Her love for dance and musical theater🎓 Her upcoming move to the University of Alabama to study psychology and dance movement therapy💬 The emotional sendoff from her teachers and the supportive atmosphere at CPFA🌟 How PALCS’ diverse curriculum and virtual learning environment helped her thrive🌍 Her involvement in community activities and the power of creative expression
This episode offers a deep dive into how online charter schools like PALCS foster artistic growth, offer real-world opportunities, and help students like Sky chase their dreams in the arts, all while receiving a high-quality education in a flexible, online setting.
🌐 Learn more about CPFA and how PALCS’ virtual K-12 school can support your student’s unique educational journey at palcs.org🔔 Subscribe to hear more inspiring student stories from our K-12 online school in Pennsylvania!
#PACyberSchool #CyberHighSchool #PAOnlineSchool #OnlineCharterSchool #VirtualHighSchool #CPFA #StudentSpotlight #CyberArtsEducation #DanceMovementTherapy #MusicalTheater #OnlineSchoolSuccess #VirtualK12SchoolsInPA
 

Winging It Podcast: Balancing High School and Creative Careers at PALCS

🎙️ In this episode of the Winging It podcast, PALCS student Caleb Doranz shares how virtual school at PALCS has allowed him to explore his passions in photography and video production—while thriving academically in online high school in Pennsylvania.
Caleb’s story is a testament to the flexibility and support PALCS offers students in K-12 online learning in Pennsylvania. Discover how PALCS empowers students to find their path, whether it’s in the arts, technology, or any field they’re passionate about.
🔗 Learn more at: palcs.org
#PACyberSchool #OnlineSchool #CyberCharterSchool #VirtualCharterSchoolsInPA #PALCS #WingingItPodcast

Winging It Podcast: PALCS Extended Trips Program

🌍✈️ Explore the world with PALCS! In this episode of the Winging It Podcast, we talk with high school teachers about the exciting international trips available to students at Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School, a leading PA Cyber Charter School.
From the British Isles to Japan in 2026, discover how K-12 students in Pennsylvania gain real-world learning experiences while enrolled in a flexible, high-quality online charter school.
🎧 Listen on Podbean, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.#PAOnlineCharterSchool #PACyberSchool #CyberHighSchool #VirtualK12SchoolsInPA #PALCS #OnlineMiddleSchoolPennsylvania #OnlineElementarySchoolPA