(MATTHEW CLARK/WCLU)
GLASGOW – On Thursday, Bo Matthews joined members of the Barren County Board of Education to welcome Barren Academy of Virtual Expanded Learning’s (BAVEL) newest principal.
Olivia Dooley is set to take the reins of Kentucky’s largest online school beginning July 1, 2023.
“I’m so honored, thrilled, and excited about the opportunity,” said Dooley. “There are so many reasons to go online to learn, and I’m blessed to be apart of this movement going forward.”
As the new principal, Dooley stressed the importance of continuing BAVEL’s successful legacy of excellence as well as partnering with area school’s to provide new opportunities for students.
“Thinking ahead for BAVEL, successfully continuing their legacy for excellence and reaching out to create partnerships would be great,” said Dooley. “Providing new opportunities for students, like career pathways with the Barren County ATC building or WKU’s Glasgow campus in order to help students easily transition from BAVEL to their future careers.”
Bo Matthews, Superintendent of Barren County Schools, stated, “Olivia brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role as BAVEL Principal. We are excited to see the continuing progress and growth of BAVEL under her leadership.”
Dooley brings 19 years of educational experience to her new role with 14 years as a high school teacher and 5 years serving as Barren County Middle School’s assistant principal.
“Digging into and understanding the progression of learning curriculum at different age groups is important and I believe that will help me make the right steps. Also knowing what good teaching looks like; what strong foundations are built, and finding the right people to fill the roles that will lead our students to be successful.”
The Barren Academy of Virtual and Expanded Learning (BAVEL) was established in 2004 by innovative minds who envisioned giving parents and their children another educational option outsides the walls of a traditional school. BAVEL is a public school recognized by the Kentucky Department of Education. In addition, BAVEL is accredited by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). BAVEL curriculum is provided primarily by Flexpoint Education Cloud, in addition to Dual Credit partnerships with numerous Kentucky colleges and universities.
