For Educators, By Educators Highlight: Kenneth Vincent

Proximity Learning is dedicated to filling gaps in schools. We know what schools need because we've been there. That rings especially true for Kenneth Vincent, a former public school teacher and administrator who now works directly with school districts across the country to implement virtual K-12 solutions that make a real difference.

"I spent 15 years in public education," Kenneth shares. "Nine of those were in the classroom teaching English Language Arts and reading. Then, I became an assistant principal for four years in both elementary and middle school settings. I even spent two years as a private school principal."

That hands-on experience in classrooms and leadership gives Kenneth a rare perspective when supporting schools. As a Partnership Director at Proximity Learning, he works to help districts fill critical instructional gaps with certified virtual teachers and case managers. And for Kenneth, it all starts with understanding a district’s specific needs.

What are the challenges with virtual education?

Kenneth pointed out two of the biggest issues districts face when adopting virtual K-12 learning: technology infrastructure and classroom support.

"A lot of schools struggle with basic access to devices, bandwidth, or a strong enough Wi-Fi signal to make virtual learning work effectively," he says. "But the second challenge is just as important: having a strong in-person facilitator in the room. That person, usually a district employee, is essential to creating the co-teaching environment that brings virtual instruction to life."

How does Proximity Learning fit into schools? 

At Proximity Learning, the goal is to be what Kenneth calls "one efficient operational solution for the whole district."

"Instead of juggling three or four different vendors to solve different problems, we make it easy," he explains. "Need special education teachers? We have them. Need case managers? We do that too. Need help with high-need subjects like math and science? We have certified virtual teachers ready."

Proximity Learning provides live, certified teachers who deliver real-time virtual instruction to K-12 students across the country. We partner with schools and districts to fill teacher vacancies, support summer learning, offer one-on-one tutoring, and deliver full-time virtual instruction when needed. All lessons are synchronous, standards-aligned, and customized to meet each district’s goals, so students receive the high-quality education they deserve, no matter where they are. Our approach helps districts streamline communication, cut down on vendor contracts, and ensure consistency across campuses.

How does virtual education fit into districts? 

Kenneth says his background in education shaped the way he collaborates with schools. "In schools, everything is about teamwork. You collaborate with fellow teachers, administrators, and parents. It’s the same here," he says. "When we sit down with a district, we listen. Then we design a custom program that fits their vision. That’s where we shine."

When is a virtual teacher the best option? 

When districts face teacher shortages, they often rely on long-term substitutes. Kenneth believes that this model just doesn’t measure up.

"The difference between a substitute and a certified teacher is huge. Subs usually depend on someone else to write lesson plans, and they’re not trained to deliver instruction."

As a former assistant principal, Kenneth knows this firsthand.

"I managed the sub pool. I knew what kind of instruction students were getting in those classrooms. It wasn't the same," he says. "When you bring in a certified virtual teacher, you're getting quality instruction, assessments, and engagement—not just coverage."

Does virtual education work?

One of Kenneth's favorite success stories comes from Ogden School District in Utah. In the middle of the school year, they lost their certified dual credit U.S. History teacher. Without a replacement, students would lose an entire semester of college credit.

"Ogden called us in December. We found a certified teacher with a master's in history who met all the qualifications to teach the course," Kenneth recalls. "By January, that teacher was live and teaching. We saved those students a semester of college credit. That’s the kind of impact we want to have."

Custom Fit, Not One-Size-Fits-All

Kenneth shared how Proximity Learning tailors its virtual K-12 solutions to each school.

"You can't deliver education out of a box. Every school is different," he says. "We embed ourselves into their systems and schedules. We meet with leadership, instructional coaches, and admin to make sure what we build actually works for their students."

Unlike other companies, Kenneth explains, Proximity doesn't require schools to adopt a specific Learning Management System, curriculum, or rigid contract.

"We offer flexibility. We adapt. That’s what makes us different."

It All Comes Back to the Teachers

At the heart of Proximity Learning's success are its teachers.

"Eighty to ninety percent of our teachers are National Virtual Teacher Association certified," Kenneth says. "They're not just subject matter experts—they’re trained in how to teach virtually. And that training shows."

The results speak for themselves. Kenneth cites a peer-reviewed study from in Shelby County, TN, and a second study of STEM classroom data, both showing significant academic gains.

For Hesitant Leaders? Look at the Data.

When asked what he would say to a district leader unsure about virtual K-12 instruction, his answer is clear:

"Look at the data. Virtual instruction isn’t new—students have been taking dual credit courses online since the 90s. Today’s students are digital natives. They know how to learn this way."

Still, Kenneth emphasizes that live virtual teaching is not about replacing in-person instruction. It's about making sure no student goes without a teacher.

"We hope every district can fill their classrooms in person. But when that’s not possible, our solution ensures that students still receive high-quality, certified instruction."

Contact us to find virtual solutions for your district today! Check out another educator at Proximity Learning who is helping shape virtual instruction!