FEBRUARY 28, 2025 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC, Director of Public Relations

352.671.7734 w ◊ 352.840.3265 c

[email protected]

MARION VIRTUAL SCHOOL NAMED

“FRANCHISE OF THE YEAR”

MARION COUNTY – Marion Virtual School, the online education experience offered by Marion County Public Schools, was named a 2024 “Franchise of the Year” by Florida Virtual School (FLVS).

The award honors “a franchise that has demonstrated full commitment, dedication, and excellence in all areas of service to their students and families” according to FLVS.

Marion Virtual started in 2011 and today enrolls more than 2,200 students in all grade levels. The school has a staff of 42 people including 36 teachers, three non-instructional support personnel, two counselors, and one coordinator.

FLVS supports schools and districts throughout the state by providing district teachers and administrators with training, more than 200 award-winning online courses, seamless technology platforms, and other educational resources. 

“We are thrilled to award Marion Virtual School with Franchise of the Year,” said Florida Virtual School Senior Director of Partner Services Larry Banks.

“Their exceptional instructional practices and individualized support have driven high student performance outcomes while aligning to our Florida Virtual School commitment, which is to meet every student where they are,” Banks added.

Marion Virtual School has demonstrated a deep understanding of the Florida Virtual School core values, policies, procedures, and best practices, and is an outstanding example of the power of virtual learning. These core values include excellence, innovation, community, balance, and communication, and lay the foundation for our student-centered focus as we grow and achieve together. 

For more information, contact Marion Virtual School Coordinator Paul Vowinkel at 352.236.0569 or [email protected].  

#                      #                      #