Interview with Kelly Bobo: 2004 Graduate and Current ECOT Teacher

On June 19, 2004, Kelly Bobo graduated from ECOT, Ohio's first and largest online school, after spending two years enrolled in the school.

She was an honor student and class speaker during her graduation ceremony at the Columbus Athenaeum.

Five years later, Kelly earned a college degree and was hired as a highly qualified ECOT teacher. Below is an interview with Kelly about her experiences at ECOT.

ECOT: What contributed to your decision to attend ECOT?

Kelly: There were a few factors that were involved in my decision to attend ECOT. First, I had surgery on my ankle and was unable to get to my classes at the brick and mortar private school I was attending because they did not have elevators or ramps. Another reason was that the public school I would have to attend if I transferred was known for violence, and I didn’t want to be in a violent environment. Since I was a straight “A” student and did not want to get behind, I decided to go to ECOT. It was the best choice I ever made in regards to my schooling. Not only did I not get behind, but I got ahead and was able to graduate a year early.

ECOT: What were the best aspects of attending an online school?

Kelly: The best aspects for me were the safety and maneuverability issues. I also loved the fact that I could work at my own pace, which enabled me to get ahead and graduate early. Lastly, I was always bored in school, but being online where I didn’t have to sit in a classroom all day being bored then have a ton of homework after school, was the best choice for me.

ECOT: Where did you go to college?

Kelly: I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Middle Childhood Education from Youngstown State University.

ECOT: How did ECOT help prepare you for college?

Kelly: Students who attend ECOT and are successful need to be independent workers and be intrinsically motivated. I was able to successfully work on my own. This independence skill got stronger through the years I was with ECOT, which helped prepare me for the independence given in college courses.

ECOT: What made you choose education as a career?

Kelly: I had always wanted to be a teacher from the time I entered Kindergarten. I love helping people, and I used to play school in my basement with my stuffed animals. I would spend hours teaching my stuffed animals school-related concepts, so it was obvious to everyone that I was going to love being a teacher.

ECOT: What made you decide to pursue a teaching position at ECOT?

Kelly: I loved ECOT as a student, and I was curious to be on the other side and see what it’s like from a teacher perspective. Also, I want to give back to the school that helped me.

ECOT: Has your experience as an ECOT student influenced your teaching?

Kelly: Yes. I feel that I am able to relate to the students since I was “in their shoes” at one time. The knowledge of how students may feel in certain situations guides my teaching.

ECOT: Do your students know you attended ECOT? If so, what do they say?

Kelly: Yes, they know. Many students say it is “cool.” There have been a few students may be frustrated with the technological aspect of ECOT. I explain to them that I’ve been there before, and I understand how frustrating it can be, but that I will help them get caught up in all of their work as soon as they can get back on Elluminate (ECOT's live teaching tool). Knowing that I’ve been there before seems to calm many students.