As many as 100 Virginia teens will have the opportunity to go to high school online through the Virginia Department of Education’s new Virtual Virginia full-time high school program.
This program will begin for the 2015-2016 school year and will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
“We are excited to offer this opportunity to high school students, especially those with the potential for thriving in a non-traditional instructional setting,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Steven R. Staples said. “This expansion of the nationally recognized Virtual Virginia program provides more choice and flexibility to students seeking a high school diploma.”
Students in the pilot program will be enrolled at their local public school, but will receive instruction through Virtual Virginia. The local school will also make sure students have access to technology, textbooks, and other necessities at no cost.
“Virtual Virginia has a track record of providing rigorous online instructional alternatives to students in the commonwealth,” Chief Academic Officer/Assistant Superintendent for Instruction John W. Haun said. “That will continue with the addition of 14 courses covering everything a student would need to earn a diploma through Virtual Virginia.”
Virtual Virginia will feature courses similar to the tradition classroom. This includes readings, discussion forums, written assignments, student presentations, and opportunities for student collaboration. The pilot program will also offer all required core academic courses and electives necessary to earn a Standard or Advanced Studies diploma.
Students interested in participating must register through their local public school counselor.
