Student Spotlight: Ethan — Month of the Military Child at KYVA 

As a Purple Star Designated online school, Kentucky Virtual Academy (KYVA), is proud to honor the Month of the Military Child by spotlighting students whose lives are shaped by service, resilience, and dedication. This month, we are sharing the story of Ethan, an eighth-grade KYVA student whose family represents generations of commitment to our nation. 

A Family Rooted in Service 

Ethan’s family connection to the military is deeply woven into their story. His mother, Maiah, served as a Chinook helicopter mechanic in the U.S. Army, spending seven years on active duty. During that time, she deployed to Iraq for 15 months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. 

Near the end of her service at Fort Riley, Kansas, Maiah met Brad. Their family began to grow soon after, and Ethan was born at Irwin Army Hospital on Fort Riley while Maiah was still serving! 

Military service spans generations in the family. Ethan’s great grandfather also served in Vietnam during the 1960s, and his grandfather on his dad’s side of the family proudly retired from the Minnesota National Guard.  

What Military Life Means to Ethan’s Family 

When asked what being a military family means to them, Ethan’s family they shared three powerful words: Honor. Respect. Love for the nation. 

These values guide their family and shape the way they view service, sacrifice, and community. 

Why the Month of the Military Child Matters 

Ethan and his family believe it is essential to recognize military-connected children because they face unique challenges — from frequent moves to adjusting after deployments or long separations. These experiences build resilience and adaptability, but they also require understanding and support from schools and communities. 

Guidance for Families Exploring Educational Options 

Ethan’s family  offers heartfelt encouragement to others navigating military life: 

“Seek the assistance you are entitled to. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is a great resource to help you identify what benefits are available and how to access them. It does not matter if you never earned a combat patch or retired after 20+ years and multiple deployments…Enjoy the benefits associated with that sacrifice.” 

Kentucky families now have an online school with a purple star designation! This means, KYVA can support families in ways that best fit their military family needs.  

For military families considering schooling or planning, they offer practical advice: 

• Explore scholarships for military families 

• Look into VA benefit eligibility for dependents 

KYVA is proud to serve military families across Kentucky. If you’re exploring educational options that offer stability, flexibility, and personalized learning, discover how Kentucky Virtual Academy can support your child’s success. Enrollment information is available on our website. 

Back to Blog