FAQ – SLPS K-12 Virtual Schools

1. What grades are offered through Virtual Schools?
2007-2008 school year
K-3 and 9-12
2008-2009 school year
K-8 and 9-12

2. What subjects are available to study?
Language Arts, Math, Science, History, Health, Music and Art are the core courses at this time. Foreign Language, Personal Finance and Web Design are additional courses included at the high school level.

3. Are textbooks and other instructional materials provided?
Yes, all textbooks and instructional materials are provided. High School students receive fewer books and materials than elementary and middle-school students.

4. Do children work at their own pace?
The virtual school programs are usually self-paced and flexible within the parameters specified by state law.

5. Does there need to be a computer/software, printer/fax and internet access in the home?
Students need to have access to a computer, printer/fax, phone, email and the internet access in the home.

6. What computer skills are required?
Use of the computer is an important part of the program, but in the early grades it is mostly the parent/responsible adult who interacts with the computer. High School students are most successful if they have basic computer skills.

7. How much time do students spend on the computer?
The students should spend no more than 20-25 percent of their time on the computer in the early grades. Virtual schools use a unique multimedia approach that also includes book, workbooks and instructional materials. At the high school level, time spent on-line will depend on the course requirements.

9. What tests are required of this program?
In addition to the K-12 lesson, unit and semester assessments, students take required formal assessments through the district and the state.

10. Is curriculum provided for special needs children?
Depending on the IEP, the curriculum can be tailored to meet specific needs.

11. Will this program intrude into students’ homes?
There are no home visits as part of the program and there are no cameras or any other intrusions into the homes of students. Teachers conference with parents and students once a week.