Middle School at EVA
Letter from the Principal
Dear Evergreen Virtual Academy Community,
I am both honored and excited to serve as the K-8 principal of our wonderful school. With 20 years of experience in education, including roles as a classroom teacher, special education teacher, and ELD teacher, I have had the privilege of working with students of various ages and backgrounds. Throughout my career, my passion has always been to meet students where they are and to help create a culture of inclusivity where all students feel safe, empowered, and like they truly belong.
As an educator, I firmly believe that every student deserves a learning environment that encourages growth, creativity, and confidence. I strive to support a school culture where each child can find their unique voice, develop their potential, and achieve their goals. I understand that students learn in different ways and at different paces, and I am committed to supporting them in their educational journey every step of the way.
I also recognize the vital role that parents and guardians play in their child’s education. Your insight, support, and partnership are essential to creating a positive and enriching school experience.
Please know that my door is always open, and I am here to support you, your child, and our entire school community. Together, we will continue to build a school that inspires and empowers every student.
Warmly,
Kimberly DeGifis, EVA K-8 Principal
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Supporting students as they grow
During Middle school years, EVA serves as a safe and inclusive environment where students feel free to be themselves. This is a critical stage where students are beginning to take on more responsibility, engage in complex academic content, and experience more meaningful social relationships.
Student expectations
In middle school, student learning changes to a semester-based approach where students are required to earn a passing grade of 60 percent or above on their assignments and online lessons.
Students will experience due dates assigned to lessons to encourage accountability and build time management skills towards high school. Our middle schoolers will continue to attend regular “Class Connect” sessions. Students at this age will be strongly encouraged to begin advocating for themselves when they need help.
In general, our middle school students are expected to spend approximately 4–7 hours on schoolwork per school day with increasing independence.
Role of the Learning Coach
During the middle school years, a learning coach can expect to transition their child to a more independent learning model in preparation for high school. Although the level of involvement really depends on your individual child, a learning coach for 6-8 students is working alongside students to build on their time management skills.
We like to prepare our learning coaches by being transparent that the initial 4–8 weeks can be intensive, as families settle into a routine. In middle school, students begin to have increased independence, but guardian/Learning Coach involvement is essential for about 60–70% of school time and approximately 25–35% of this time is online.
Testing & Assessment
As a public school our students are expected to participate in annual state testing beginning in 3rd grade.
In addition, EVA administers in-house NWEA testing online multiple times throughout the year to all of our students. These results help to ensure instruction is aligned to student academic needs.
