Business Systems and Technology Florida Virtual School
To be successful in today’s business world, employees must have the right skills, the ability to think innovatively, and the desire to achieve personal and organizational goals. These are just some of the core talents and attitudes developed by students in every one of Caroline Maru’s classes.
Every aspect of Ms. Maru’s classes is shaped by the purpose to relate instruction to the real world. Her curriculum is authentically geared to what students will encounter as they plan and advance their careers. Ms. Maru’s curriculum is also shaped by her own career experiences encountered over the past 25 years.
Building on her experiences as a director of finance and her earlier work as a property manager, Ms. Maru has brought essential skills and successful business practices into the classroom. She has also enabled her students to learn on the job. As the department chair of Business Computer Technology and the coordinator of Business Cooperative Education at New Smyrna Beach High in New Smyrna, Florida, she has successfully promoted student internships at more than 65 local businesses. She also founded and published The Business Voice newspaper providing students with photography, layout and editorial experience. During its five year publication, The Business Voice sold enough advertising to support itself and provided $5000 in scholarships for graduating Digital Design students.
When the connection between the curriculum and the real world is clear, student motivation is high. When the curriculum is presented with enthusiasm and a sense of purpose, motivation is especially high. One result is the “Outstanding Computer Teacher in Volusia County” award presented to Ms. Maru by Embry Riddle University. Another is her inclusion in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers” for the past two years.
Ms. Maru earned her MS in Computer Science from Nova Southeastern University. She also graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Central Florida with a BS degree in Business Education.
