Norah’s Journey: From Virtual Classroom to Global Competition
For 10-year-old Norah, learning goes far beyond the classroom. As a student at California Virtual Academies (CAVA), she has the opportunity to explore her love of science and history while competing at the highest levels.
In just the past year, Norah has traveled to Puerto Rico for the International Environmental Science Olympiad and is preparing for the International History Bee in Paris. Her dedication to learning and encouragement from her CAVA teachers have helped her succeed in ways she never imagined.
Discovering a Passion for Academic Competitions
Norah’s journey into academic competitions started with a simple suggestion from one of her teachers: why not try the National Science Bee? She gave it a shot, won the regional event in 2024, and moved on to nationals. From there, she qualified for the National Science Bee and the International Environmental Science Olympiad, where she competed against students from 70 countries and won a silver and a bronze medal.
Encouraged by her success, she decided to take on another challenge: history. After placing third in the regional History Bee, she earned a spot at the national History Bee in Orlando this May and the International History Olympiad in Paris this summer.
“I really love ancient history, especially the Roman Empire,” she says. “It’s just so interesting to learn about.”
Her father was amazed at how quickly she embraced these competitions.
“She was competing against last year’s national champion in history and still placed in the top three,” he explains. “We had no idea these competitions even existed, but thanks to her teachers, she got involved—and now she’s traveling the world for them.”
A School That Supports High-Achieving Students
Norah’s success results from her dedication, curiosity, and a learning environment that allows her to reach her full potential. At CAVA, she can focus on challenging coursework while still having time to prepare for competitions.
“She’s finished with school by early afternoon most days, which gives her time to study,” her father says. “In a brick-and-mortar school, she wouldn’t have that extra time. She’d be too tired after a long day.”
Norah also enjoys the way her teachers make lessons engaging.
“Our teachers make learning fun,” she says. “We play games and do activities that help us understand the material better. It makes practicing multiplication really fun.”
Her parents, both healthcare professionals, initially had questions about online school. However, after seeing CAVA’s approach, they are confident she is receiving a strong education.
“ In terms of education and opportunities, CAVA has been amazing,” her father explains.
A Well-Rounded Learner
Norah’s love of learning extends beyond science and history. She also plays piano, teaches herself coding, and enjoys chess.
“I take piano lessons through Trinity College London, and I just passed my first exam,” she says. “I also love coding—I just teach myself how to do it.”
With so many interests, she has big goals for the future.
“I want to be a doctor or a scientist when I grow up,” she says. “I’m not sure exactly what kind yet, but that’s what I want to do.”
Her father believes that these experiences will prepare her for the future, no matter what career she chooses.
“She’s learning at a higher level than most kids her age, and when she gets to college, she’ll be ahead,” he says. “But most importantly, she’s having fun while she learns. That’s what matters.”
Looking Ahead
Norah is already preparing for her next big challenge. She will compete in the National Science Bee again this year and is studying for her upcoming history competitions in Orlando and Paris.
Her journey proves that students can accomplish incredible things when given the right opportunities and encouragement.
CAVA is proud to support Norah as she continues to grow, compete, and chase her dreams. We can’t wait to see what she achieves next!