Record-breaking Class of 2025 highlights virtual learning boom in Alabama
May 23, 2025
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – The Class of 2025 marked a significant milestone for Alabama Virtual Academy. A record 266 seniors crossed the virtual stage, making it the largest graduating class in the school’s history.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to be at the top of my class,” Evan Willey said after addressing fellow graduates during the virtual school’s commencement ceremony.
Willey joined ALVA in 2023, balancing his high school coursework with dual enrollment classes as he worked toward a spot at the University of Alabama’s School of Engineering. The path, he said, was anything but easy.
“A lot of sleepless nights. A lot of hard studying,” he said.
Willey credits his achievements to his parents, both engineers. His siblings also share an alma mater in ALVA.
“The graduation plan. All of the resources that they give us. Hands down, online public school is where it’s at,” Willey said.
Alabama has seen a surge in enrollment in virtual education programs in recent years, driven by students seeking more adaptable schedules for athletics, jobs, dual enrollment, and collegiate-level academic challenges.
“It’s just a viable option for them,” said Melanie Barkley, executive director for the K-12 program.
ALVA, one of the state’s leading virtual public schools, now serves approximately 7,000 students statewide.