About

HYBRID MODEL

Evergreen Hybrid Academy is a homeschool support program, combining the flexibility of home education with the guidance of an experienced teacher. Students attend a classroom two days a week for support, instruction, and meaningful social interaction, then continue learning at home where families lead daily lessons and pacing. This approach empowers parents while providing structure, resources, and a strong connection between home and the classroom.

Students enrolled in Evergreen Hybrid Academy will attend class on Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00-2:00. Parents enrolling their children in Evergreen Hybrid Academy are homeschoolers under Pennsylvania law. This means that the parent must have a high school diploma or its equivalent and file a notarized affidavit with your local superintendent and complete a homeschool portfolio throughout the school year. Parents must also commit to completing lessons at home from the curriculum two days per week in math and language arts. The curriculum used at Evergreen Hybrid Academy is an open-and-go curriculum, which means you will not have to plan the lessons. They are planned for you. Evergreen Hybrid Academy is here to support you through this journey.

INSTRUCTIONAL APPROACH

At Evergreen Hybrid Academy, we use a multi-age, competency-based approach to learning. Students advance through the curriculum by demonstrating mastery of concepts rather than progressing according to grade level or age. Math and language arts instruction is provided by professional teachers in small-group or one-on-one settings, allowing each student to receive instruction at their individual academic level.

Our educational program is not based on a single teaching philosophy. Instead, we draw from a variety of research-based approaches to create a balanced and effective learning experience. We value a flexible, play-based, hands-on, and well-rounded education.

At Evergreen Hybrid Academy, we are committed to fostering academic excellence while emphasizing strong moral character, the importance of play and time spent in nature, and the essential role of the family in a child's education.

Hands-on

Learning through active exploration, real-world experiences, and meaningful activities.

Individualized

Supporting each child’s needs with personalized learning opportunities.

Outdoor

Exploring, discovering, and learning through experiences in nature.

Child-centered

Honoring each child's interests, strengths, and unique learning journey

Multi-age

Friends and siblings learn together, building community, leadership, and connection.

Play-based

Encouraging curiosity, creativity, and learning through purposeful play.

OUR LOCATION

Evergreen Hybrid Academy is located at the Christian Center Church in Belle Vernon.

This location is great for local and surrounding communities.

Our location at the Christian Center Church provides access to a classroom and large indoor space. It also has access to acres of outdoor space, playground equipment, a basketball court, swings, and a covered outdoor pavilion. The pavilion allows us to take learning outdoors for lessons, read-alouds, projects, and hands-on activities throughout the year. We believe outdoor play is essential. We believe childhood should include fresh air, adventure, wonder, and room to grow. Most importantly, we believe some of the best learning happens beyond four walls.

Space to play and make memories

Space to take learning, read alouds, and activities outdoors

Space to run and move

Space to explore and connect with nature

OUR QUALIFICATIONS

Jessica Popelas is the teacher and director of the program, and Melinda Agostoni is the Board President. Jessica and Melinda are Pennsylvania-certified teachers in grades K–4. They both hold a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Education in Reading Specialist. With 10 years of experience in elementary education, they have taught in kindergarten and first grade, bringing a strong foundation in early childhood learning and literacy development to the program.

Together, they are dedicated to creating a classroom where children love to be, learn through engaging and meaningful activities, and build strong relationships. Their goal is to foster a warm, welcoming environment where kids feel safe, confident, and loved.