Amanda Oberhouse Receives the Sara Bailey Award

At Ohio Virtual Academy’s (OHVA) annual beginning-of-the-year conference, middle school counselor Amanda Oberhouse was recognized with one of the school’s highest honors, the Sara Bailey Award. The award, named in memory of beloved OHVA teacher Sara Bailey, celebrates educators who go above and beyond in supporting students and embodying the spirit of OHVA.  

For Ms. Oberhouse, receiving the award carried special meaning. She worked closely with Bailey during her early years at OHVA, often turning to her as a mentor and guide.  

“She was one of those teachers I could always talk to about supporting students,” Ms. Oberhouse reflected. “To receive an award in her name means a lot because she was there for me when I first started.” 

Over the course of 14 years at OHVA, Ms. Oberhouse has served as a health and PE teacher, credit recovery lead, high school counselor, and now middle school counselor. Each role sharpened her focus on individualizing support and helping students find pathways to success. 

In addition to her student-centered approach, she’s quick to dispel myths about online learning. “There’s a misconception that students at virtual schools are isolated,” she said. “In reality, our students often have more opportunities to connect, whether with peers across Ohio or even nationally. They’re overcoming barriers and building meaningful relationships.” 

Ms. Oberhouse’s belief in connection extends to her colleagues as well. She credits much of her success to the supportive culture at OHVA. Working alongside a team of 36 counselors, she says collaboration and shared problem-solving are commonplace. “There is always somebody there to support you,” she said, emphasizing how teamwork fuels both staff and student success.  

With the flexibility OHVA provides, Ms. Oberhouse completed her master’s in school counseling and now serves on the Ohio School Counselor Association. In that role, she amplifies the voice of virtual schools and advocates for resources that help students thrive across the state. 

Looking ahead, Ms. Oberhouse and her colleagues are working toward renewing OHVA’s designation as a Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP), a distinction that affirms the school’s commitment to comprehensive, student-centered counseling services. 

“It’s exciting to be part of a school that not only supports students but also empowers its staff to grow,” Ms. Oberhouse said. “That combination makes OHVA a special place.”