Virtual learning has become an integral part of our educational system. Virtual learning can aid in
- Increasing student engagement and choice,
- Supporting personalized learning experiences for students, and
- Increasing equity in access to high quality learning experiences.
Virtual learning programs offer flexibility to students while providing instruction aligned with the Standards of Learning. A number of Virginia school divisions provide opportunities for their students to take online courses as a part of their regular course offerings.
As a program of the Virginia Department of Education, Virtual Virginia (VVA) offers online Advanced Placement (AP), world language, core academic, and elective courses to students throughout the Commonwealth. Virtual Virginia is designed to meet the needs of students who otherwise would be unable to take these courses due to a lack of availability or scheduling conflicts within their school. Eligible students enroll in Virtual Virginia through their local schools. Visit Virtual Virginia for details about the program, including the course catalog, school registration information and more.
The 2010 General Assembly directed the Board of Education to establish criteria for the approval of virtual school programs that provide instruction to students in multiple school divisions. The criteria and processes approved by the board in November 2010 provide flexibility for diverse learners and ensure that instruction provided by multidivision online providers is aligned with state standards and provided by highly qualified teachers. More about the Mulltidivision Online Provider Program.