Virtual Learning for Families
Virtual learning has become an important part of the education system. It helps keep students engaged and offers them more choices, supports personalized learning experiences, and ensures everyone has access to high-quality education.
Students shall successfully complete one virtual course, which may be a non-credit-bearing course or a required or elective credit-bearing course that is offered online. Guidance on this requirement is provided in the Guidance Document Governing Certain Provisions of the SOA (8VAC20-131)
These programs give students the flexibility to learn at their own pace, while still meeting the Standards of Learning. Many schools in Virginia now include online courses as part of their regular classes, providing a variety of learning opportunities for students.
Virtual learning is defined as a learning modality in or out of school buildings that uses the Internet and digital technology to provide and enhance learning experiences and promote educational outcomes. A student may have a choice of taking a virtual course as a part of the scheduled school day classes or full-time at home.
Remote learning is conducted outside of a brick-and-mortar school setting. An unscheduled remote learning day is defined as an instructional day that was originally scheduled to be in-person but, due to inclement weather or other emergency situations. It includes learning with (virtual) or without (packets, flash drives, or similar) Internet access.
Virtual Learning Options in Virginia
Virtual Learning Programs Developed by a School Division
School divisions may offer locally developed programs for part-time and full-time virtual learning that meet all local and state policies and regulations for public education. This guide provides support for divisions developing and operating a program of full-time virtual learning.
Virtual Virginia
Virtual Virginia (VVA) offers online courses, digital content, and professional learning opportunities to Virginia's students and educators. VVA promotes equitable access for all learners—including underserved populations—to rigorous courses, high-quality instruction, and blended learning resources for schools in the Commonwealth and across the nation. VVA works in partnership with Virginia public school divisions to facilitate access to courses, content, and professional learning opportunities that may otherwise be unavailable due to a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to low enrollment, scheduling conflicts, or a lack of highly qualified instructors in specific subject areas. One of VVA’s core commitments is to provide academic flexibility while preserving the autonomy of Virginia public school divisions in meeting the varied schedules, needs, and expectations of learners. All learners enrolled in VVA courses remain affiliated with their local schools and remain part of their schools’ membership.
Multidivision Online Provider
Mulitdivision Online Provider (MOP) programs supply virtual teachers coupled with online content to K-12 students. Providers may offer one course or a full array of courses as a virtual program provider contracted with a local school division. Click on the action button to explore providers, courses, and schools from the approved list.
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.