For many families, the decision to change schools is driven by academics. For others, it’s about safety, support, and peace of mind. At Central Pennsylvania Digital Learning Foundation (CPDLF), families often discover they don’t have to choose between the two.
For one CPDLF family with three learners in middle and high school, becoming a Learning Coach meant building a learning environment rooted in encouragement, organization, and advocacy—while helping each child pursue big dreams for the future.
“I wanted my kids to see life as an adventure,” Natasha Keelber, mom of three, shared. “I wanted them to see what they want and work toward it.”
When School Stops Feeling Safe
Before CPDLF, the Keelber Family’s children experienced challenges that went far beyond homework.
“My kids were always coming home crying,” Natasha explained. “I didn’t like brick-and-mortar public schooling because they were being treated like they were in a jail instead of a school.”
One child suffered an injury that went unnoticed. Others felt afraid to speak up, worried that asking for help would lead to punishment rather than support. Two of the three learners have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and accommodations were inconsistently honored by their previous schools.
“I wanted them to feel supported, loved, and safe,” she said. “That should be the foundation of learning.”
After hearing about CPDLF, Natasha explored cyber education as an alternative—one that could meet her children where they were academically and emotionally.
A Transition Built on Advocacy
The transition into CPDLF felt familiar after COVID-related virtual learning, but the level of support quickly stood out.
“The communication between teachers surprised me the most,” Natasha said. “If something needs to be fixed—an accommodation, an assignment detail—I reach out and get a response within minutes. There’s rarely a wait for attention.”
CPDLF worked quickly to put appropriate supports in place, including occupational therapy and academic accommodations that allowed learners to communicate directly with their teachers and complete work efficiently.
“They didn’t just acknowledge the needs,” she said. “They acted on them.”
What Being a Learning Coach Really Means
For this family, being a Learning Coach is a full-hearted commitment—not control, but partnership.
“A Learning Coach should be someone who is 110% behind supporting their children, their choices, and what matters to them,” Natasha explained. “Every decision we make is a family decision. My kids always have a voice.”
Encouragement is at the center of her approach.
“That’s what a child needs—support and encouragement, not criticism,” she said. “Encouragement is key to success.”
Her home is structured, organized, and intentionally prepared. Each learner has their own workspace, supplies planned months in advance, and clear expectations for the day. Alarms signal when classes begin and deadlines approach. Any issues are identified and addressed quickly.
“We stop school at 3:00,” she added. “That’s a long day. After that, we’re a family.”
Evenings are spent together—sharing meals, reading, playing games, and unwinding without phones. Learning doesn’t stop, but it no longer overwhelms.
Support That Extends Beyond the Screen
CPDLF’s Academic Team has played a critical role in the family’s success.
“The teachers learn your child’s name right away,” she said. “They genuinely care how kids are doing—how they feel, what they’re excited about, what their goals are.”
She highlighted the availability of live lessons, open office hours, Learning Labs, and family engagement opportunities—supports she never experienced in traditional school settings.
“Going into cyber school, I thought it would be ‘here’s your work, do it, the end,’” Natasha said. “I had no idea how much interaction and help was built in.”
One educator, in particular, made a lasting impact.
“When I feel like I’m juggling everything, she’s there—for me and all three of my kids,” Natasha shared. “She didn’t just teach my child math. She taught me how to teach math at home. That’s a kind of support I didn’t even know to expect.”
Peace of Mind—and Room to Dream
Today, this family measures success not just in grades, but in confidence, safety, and growth.
“CPDLF gives me peace of mind,” she said. “My kids are safe. They’re supported. They can be themselves.”
Each learner is free to dream big—whether that means military service, first response careers, or racing at NASCAR speeds. They’re learning independence, resilience, and self-advocacy along the way.
“My kids will struggle sometimes—that’s part of learning,” she said. “But they’ll never struggle alone.”
For parents wondering if they’re “qualified” to be a Learning Coach, Natasha’s advice is simple:
“Take a deep breath. Set a schedule. Stay organized. Be there when they need you. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to show up.”
At CPDLF, that presence makes all the difference.