Virtual Learning for Families

Virtual learning has become an integral component of today’s educational landscape. It provides students with additional opportunities to remain engaged, explore their interests, and learn at a pace that supports their individual needs. It also helps ensure that all students have equitable access to high‑quality instructional experiences, regardless of location.

As part of their academic program, students are required to complete at least one virtual course. This requirement may be met through a non‑credit course or a credit‑bearing course—whether required or elective—so long as the course is delivered online. Additional details regarding this requirement are outlined in the Guidance Document Governing Certain Provisions of the SOA (8VAC20-131). 

Virtual learning refers to instruction delivered through the internet and digital tools, whether students are participating from within a school building or from home. This modality offers flexible learning pathways, supports exploration of new subjects, and helps students remain on track academically. School divisions are responsible for ensuring that students engaged in virtual learning receive a full year of instruction—either 180 days or 990 hours—supported by qualified teachers and a standards‑aligned curriculum. Divisions must also continue to provide essential services, including high‑quality instruction, specialized supports, required assessments, and other resources that contribute to student success.

As families consider virtual learning, this guide is intended to support informed decision‑making. It outlines key factors to review when determining whether virtual learning is an appropriate fit for a student’s needs: Is Virtual Learning Right for My Child?

This video provides an overview of virtual learning and opportunities for students. (Video produced by Blue Ridge PBS.)

Remote learning is distinct from virtual learning. It occurs outside of a school building and is used when an in‑person instructional day must be canceled due to inclement weather or other emergency situations. Remote learning may involve online instruction or offline materials such as packets or flash drives. Additional information about remote learning is available.

Virtual Learning Options in Virginia

To promote a clear understanding of how various virtual learning models operate, Virtual Learning Roles & Responsibilities provides an overview of the general expectations shared by students, families, and school staff. Families are encouraged to review these responsibilities as they explore the virtual learning options available through their school division. The possibilities include: 

School Division Virtual Learning Programs

School divisions may operate their own locally developed virtual learning programs, using division‑employed teachers and instructional staff. These programs are designed and managed entirely by the division and do not involve partnerships with other school divisions or external providers. Locally operated programs may offer part‑time or full‑time virtual learning options and must meet all applicable local and state policies, regulations, and instructional requirements for public education. This includes ensuring high‑quality instruction, adherence to state standards, and the provision of all required student services.

Virtual Virginia

Virtual Virginia provides online courses, digital instructional resources, and professional learning opportunities. The program is designed to expand access to high‑quality instruction, particularly in situations where certain courses or qualified instructors may not be available locally. VVA partners with Virginia public school divisions to offer flexible learning options while maintaining each division’s authority over student enrollment, scheduling, and support services. Students who participate in VVA courses remain enrolled in and connected to their local schools.

Multidivision Online Provider

Multidivision Online Provider programs supply virtual teachers and online instructional content to K–12 students. These providers offer courses depending on the needs of the contracting school division. MOPs operate through formal agreements with local school divisions, which determine how students access courses, receive support, and remain connected to their enrolling schools. Families may click on the yellow button to explore approved providers, available courses, and participating schools to better understand the options offered through this model.

Homeschooling & Online Private Schools

A parent has the option of withdrawing a child from his/her home school and providing instruction through an approved homeschool program or enrolling in a private school at their own expense. The use of online providers may be for homeschooling or private schooling depending upon how the material is being used. Additional information regarding both homeschooling and private schools may be found on the Home Instruction and Private Schools pages.

Private online institutions come under the purview of the Virginia Council of Private Education (VCPE). §22.1-19 of the Code of Virginia gives the VCPE, under the authority of the Virginia Board of Education, oversight in the accreditation of private schools in Virginia, including online private schools.