How It Works
How Online Middle School Works
Who can attend?
The West Virginia Virtual Academy (WVVA) middle school program serves students in grades 6–8 who reside in the state of West Virginia.*
What are the costs?
Because WVVA is part of the public school system, it’s tuition-free. We provide West Virginia-certified teachers and instructional materials.** Our enrollment consultants can help address your technology and computer questions and needs.
What is my role as a parent?
Middle school is a time when students become more independent, taking on more responsibility and ownership for their learning. As a parent, you (or another responsible adult you choose) serve as your child’s “Learning Coach.”
Parent/Learning Coach involvement is critical for student success, as middle school students continue to build their organization and time-management skills. Teachers set the pace of instruction, but the Learning Coach helps the student stay on track.
Parent/Learning Coach involvement may vary per child and grade level. Students in grades 6–8 build self-advocacy skills and work more directly with teachers, but parent/Learning Coach involvement is essential for approximately 20 hours a week. The initial 4–8 weeks can be intensive as families settle into a routine.
Working with Your Teacher
Teachers provide individual and small group assistance via online synchronous sessions called “Class Connects.” Students are expected to attend all required Class Connects and meet with their teacher to receive course assistance, tutoring, and instruction. Class Connects vary by grade level and are scheduled by your teacher.
Expectations for Completing Schoolwork
In middle school, student learning changes to a semester-based approach where students are required to earn a passing grade on their assignments and online lessons. Due dates are assigned to lessons to encourage consistent, steady progress for academic success.
While online lessons can usually be completed at any time of day, students are required to attend live, online Class Connect sessions with their teachers based on their individual needs. During Class Connects, students receive online instruction from teachers and have opportunities to interact virtually with classmates.
Attending Class Connects and completing coursework according to the assigned pacing schedule will help set up your student for success.
State Testing
WVVA students must comply with all West Virginia-mandated testing requirements
*West Virginia Virtual Academy currently enrolls students in grades K–11 for the 2023–2024 school year. One additional grade level will be added with each subsequent year until the school is fully operational for grades K–12.
**Course materials vary by course. Please check with West Virginia Virtual Academy staff to see what offline course materials are provided.