Gloucester and Mathews schools are featured in the recently released 19th annual Virginia School Boards Association’s Showcases for Success directory, highlighting successful K-12 programs in Virginia’s public schools. A total of 58 school divisions from across the commonwealth are discussed.

Gloucester County is included for its Gloucester Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) and STEM Challenge. The GOAL initiative offers online course and credit-recovery opportunities to non-traditional learners, including those who exhibit academic, behavior and attendance challenges.

GOAL is a branch of Gloucester High School but operates a satellite location to provide a unique virtual learning environment and more personalized experiences through the assistance of teachers and support personnel who provide academic support. At present, more than 70 students are enrolled in GOAL with more than 120 credits earned.

In the fall of 2013, Page Middle School initiated a new elective to suppo...