Meet the Team

Hi, I’m Dr. Megan Nason, and I’m honored to serve as the Head of Schools for Virtual Prep of West Virginia. With over 15 years of experience in education, my passion lies in creating inclusive, empowering learning spaces where every student and educator can thrive. From my early days as a general and special education teacher to leading innovative virtual school programs, I’ve remained deeply committed to student-centered growth and educational equity. I hold a dual bachelor’s degree in general and special education, a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Rooted in the mountains of West Virginia, I live with my husband and our rescue animals, where I balance a life of purpose, service, and leadership. I believe deeply in the power of connection, whether partnering with families, championing teachers, or advocating for safe, nurturing communities for children. My mission at Virtual Prep of West Virginia is clear: to lead with heart, inspire excellence, and build a future where all students can soar.

I am the Elementary Principal and Testing Coordinator for Virtual Preparatory Academy of West Virginia. Born and raised in Appalachia, I take great pride in declaring, “I am a West Virginian”. Our community is known for its resilience, and I believe that our students are deserving of the highest quality education. I am committed to providing a transformative learning environment that addresses the diverse needs our student population. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Currently, I am pursuing my Doctorate (Ed.D.) in Trauma-Informed Education, focusing on the unique academic needs of students in West Virginia. I have taught in brick-and-mortar schools, virtual schools, and at the collegiate level. I firmly believe that it truly takes a village, and I feel privileged to support our students as they peruse their individual paths.

Welcome! I’m proud to serve as the Middle School Principal at Virtual Preparatory Academy of West Virginia. Although I’m not originally from West Virginia, my wife and I chose to make this beautiful state our home nearly twenty years ago. We currently reside in the Eastern Panhandle with our three children and our dog.

For the past 16 years, I’ve been dedicated to supporting West Virginia students through various roles in the education system. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, along with master’s degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and Educational Leadership. My professional background includes teaching fifth and sixth grades, serving as an Assistant Principal in a traditional brick-and-mortar middle school, and currently teaching in the teacher continuing education department at Shepherd University.

At Virtual Preparatory Academy, my goal is to cultivate an engaging online learning environment—one that encourages creativity, empowers both students and teachers, and supports students’ emotional, social, and academic growth. I look forward to partnering with our students, staff, and families as we work together to make this school year a success.

I am a graduate of South Charleston High School, WVSU BA Political Science, Marshall University Masters Special Education Multi-Categorical, Masters Certificate Educational Leadership. I have been a High School Principal, Assistant principal, teacher, and football coach in Roane County Schools and Kanawha County Schools systems. I am a WVSSAC Wrestling Official, received an athletic football scholarship to WVSU, and coached football at South Charleston High School winning back to back state championships in 2008 & 2009. I have a son that is a Junior in High School and daughter that will be starting 4th grade.

Hi! I’m Sabrina Smith, the Student Services Manager at Virtual Preparatory Academy of West Virginia. I was raised in central Florida. However, I have called West Virginia my home for the last 10 years. My life has been shaped by diverse experiences, which lead to a love of learning. I earned my Master of Arts in Psychology from American Public University, an online school based out of Charles Town, WV. My professional background has included work with students from pre-K all the way through doctoral candidates. I believe education is the foundation for success in life. Regardless of a student’s culture or location, I aim to create an environment that fosters growth for our students. I love working with our Mountain Lions!

Hello, I am the State Reporting and Test Administrator for Virtual Preparatory Academy of West Virginia. I have a master’s degree in elementary education, a bachelor’s degree in biology, and licensure for administration on all levels, from principal to superintendent. My education along with the 20+ years’ experience I have in public schools gives me a different insight into the school system that you may not find in other charter schools, allowing me to help blend the two to make our school a viable option for your educational needs. I was born and raised in West Virginia and am a product of the public school system. I raised my children in West Virginia in the public school system. And my grandchild is being raised in West Virginia (not yet school-aged). My devotion to the education of the children in West Virginia drives me to excellence. I aim to bring my knowledge to VPrep of WV and make it the best school in the state!

My name is Michelle Ash, and I live in Spencer, WV, with my husband, Larry, and our cat, Ed. I have two adult sons, Ethan and Kam. I have a strong background in education, having taught middle school students with disabilities for 15 years. After that, I served as a Special Education Specialist for one year and then as Director of Student Services for five years.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a Special Education multi-categorical endorsement from Glenville State College, an Autism Certification from Ohio Valley University, and a Master’s in Elementary Leadership from Salem University.

Hi! I’m Danyelle Schoonmaker, the WVTSS/Title Coordinator at Virtual Preparatory Academy of West Virginia. A native of West Virginia, I’ve dedicated the past 17 years to education, serving students across a variety of grade levels and learning environments. In my role, I collaborate closely with the LEVEL UP Team and our entire school community to ensure that every student has access to the supports and resources they need to succeed.

I am passionate about creating systems and strategies that promote academic growth, social-emotional development, and equitable access for all learners. Partnering with families, teachers, and administrators, I aim to build a collaborative, supportive, and student-centered school culture. I love being part of a team that is committed to empowering West Virginia students to reach their full potential!