Meet Your Educator: Principal of Glendale-based virtual school
Feb 24, 2026
Q&A with leader of Insight Academy of Arizona
The Glendale Independent caught up with Christine Twidwell, principal at virtual learning school Insight Academy of Arizona, which is based at 1255 W. Rio Salado Pkwy, Suite 201 Tempe, Glendale, for a question and answer session:
Name: Christine Twidwell
Where I live and work: Glendale
Why do you live in Arizona? I was born in Arizona and was fortunate to grow up here. I attended Northern Arizona University and have worked all over the state. Working in virtual education through Insight Academy of Arizona provides me with the opportunity to explore our great state while helping students from all over Arizona. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.
What do you like most about living in Arizona? There is no other state like Arizona! You can visit beautiful mountain towns to experience the fall colors and snow, explore the desert in the winter, spend time on the water at Lake Powell or on the rivers and of course there is the Grand Canyon.
What activities do you enjoy? Spending time with my family, trail running, camping, back country hiking, baking, reading and traveling.
What clubs/organizations are you involved in? I am on the children’s ministry team for my church and have the opportunity to lead our 5-8-year-old kids each month.
What is your favorite charity or volunteer activity and why does it deserves support from others? I volunteer each month at a local shelter that supports women and children experiencing homelessness. Together with a small group, we prepare and serve themed meals to the residents. The shelter offers a safe and nurturing environment where women receive essential physical and mental health care. It also provides job training and placement services, empowering them to build independent, sustainable lives for themselves and their families. Although space and resources are limited, the shelter and its volunteers play a vital role in offering hope and connection to the women and children as they work toward a brighter future.
What is your No. 1 suggestion to new residents looking for ways to get involved in their community? One of the best ways to feel at home is to get involved. Explore local events, community centers and activities. Whether you’re into fitness, art, volunteering or just meeting new people, finding your niche helps you build connections and discover groups that matter to you.
What one thing would you like to see changed in your community? I would like to see more opportunities for kids to connect in the community while engaging in activities that align to their interests. As a principal of an online school, Insight Academy of Arizona, I see first-hand how important it is that students of all ages find connections with their peers, pursue interests and get involved in their community.
Describe your family: I have been happily married for 23 years to my husband, Marc. We have a son who will graduate from Arizona State University this year and a daughter who just started her freshman year of college at West Texas A&M University. We have a large extended family that is spread throughout Arizona and we always look forward to spending time together.
What do you do?: I am the principal at Insight Academy of Arizona. After nearly a decade with Insight Academy of Arizona, it has been such a blessing to help students access a meaningful, personalized and flexible learning experience. Whether a student is working toward credit recovery, traveling for sports, managing family commitments or simply looking for a quieter learning path, online education is a great option for those looking for individualized support.
What people are an inspiration to you? I am fortunate to be surrounded by people who are always looking for ways to improve the world around them. I am inspired by those who look for the best in a person or situation because it always leads to something good and brings hope for a positive outcome no matter what the challenge.
What is your advice to today’s youth? Try doing one thing each day that helps you grow. Read something interesting, volunteer your time, watch a movie that motivates you, or try something totally new. Join a club, play a sport, or hang out with people who share your interests, connecting with others makes the journey way more fun.