EPISODE · Nov 14, 2025 · 41 MIN
Experiential Learning With VR
from LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education · host Jamie Saponaro
What happens when classical learning meets cutting-edge technology? In this episode, we sit down with Kim Abel, the visionary behind Optima Academy, to find out. She shares how VR, AI, and intentional design create unforgettable student experiences, the leadership lessons learned along the way, and the stories that fuel her passion.Tune in as Kim shares the story of Optima Academy’s founding, the innovative practices that make their model stand out, and how her team leverages emerging technologies and intentional design to craft learning experiences students love and remember. Packed with ideas, inspiration, and actionable insights, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of K–12 education.---ABOUT OUR GUESTDr. Kim Abel serves as Head of School at Optima Academy Online (OAO), a pioneering virtual reality K-12 (and growing) school. Passionate about cultivating rich and rewarding thinking among students and faculty, Kim brings to the role a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Utah State University, a Master's in Education from William Carey University, National Board Teacher Certification, and an Ed.D. in Learning and Leadership Organizations from Vanderbilt University. Kim's dedication to educational excellence and continual learning is unwavering. Her vision is to make quality education accessible to all students.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.
What this episode covers
What happens when classical learning meets cutting-edge technology? In this episode, we sit down with Kim Abel, the visionary behind Optima Academy, to find out. She shares how VR, AI, and intentional design create unforgettable student experiences, the leadership lessons learned along the way, and the stories that fuel her passion.Tune in as Kim shares the story of Optima Academy’s founding, the innovative practices that make their model stand out, and how her team leverages emerging technologies and intentional design to craft learning experiences students love and remember. Packed with ideas, inspiration, and actionable insights, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of K–12 education.---ABOUT OUR GUESTDr. Kim Abel serves as Head of School at Optima Academy Online (OAO), a pioneering virtual reality K-12 (and growing) school. Passionate about cultivating rich and rewarding thinking among students and faculty, Kim brings to the role a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Utah State University, a Master's in Education from William Carey University, National Board Teacher Certification, and an Ed.D. in Learning and Leadership Organizations from Vanderbilt University. Kim's dedication to educational excellence and continual learning is unwavering. Her vision is to make quality education accessible to all students.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at classlink.com.
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Experiential Learning With VR
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