What does it take to succeed at Valley Virtual?
Online learning is a lot like a regular classroom, but there are some differences. You'll need to have a lot more self-discipline to make sure you stay on track with your assignments, quizzes, and exams. You'll also need to sharpen your time management and organizational skills. Here are some indicators you'll do well in your online classroom:
- You're self-motivated.
- Your reading and writing skills are up to speed.
- You've got great time-management and organizational skills.
- You're comfortable with technology and asking questions
What are the common problems that make students not successful?
There are several common issues that prevent students from doing well in an online environment:.
- Not working (we track your logins and work rate to include pace and grades)
- Working too Slowly (Our school year is only August-May)
- Not asking for help (you can come to the lab, call on the phone, or even screen-share with an educator)
- Putting off work (saying I was busy or had to work)
- Being removed from the school due to truancy (72 hour Rule or House Bill 410) (You must attend online and work to remain at VV)
- Not having an Internet connection at home (and not coming to the lab) (You can't be online if you can't get online)
- No home support or structure to ensure student is working 27 hours per week and completing courses (guardians play a key role)
What subjects and grades are offered?
Valley Virtual Remote Learning Academy presently offers a comprehensive curriculum for grades 6-12.
How much does it cost?
Valley Virtual provides quality education at no cost to students and parents.
How many hours is my child required to be on the computer?
Students should plan to spend about 5.5 hours per day or approximately 27 hours per week to complete weekly coursework on and off the computer.
Do I need a computer and Internet connection for my child to enroll?
Valley Virtual loans a computer to every student enrolled if need be. An Internet connection at home is required.
What happens if my child is struggling with the work?
Students are provided remediation as needed. Teachers/tutors/mentors are available to assist students and help monitor the process. Struggling students will be encouraged to attend the computer lab located at the ESCEO to get live help.
Will my child be able to work at his or her own pace?
Students will be required to complete weekly assignments as assigned, but have the entire week to complete them. The last day each year for Valley Virtual is around the end of May. If students want to stay on pace AND started after August, students must spend more time working to catch up. Students can work at own pace, but the student must work at least 27 hours per week.
Can I use a school computer for personal use?
No. Computers in the lab or loaned computers are for school use only. When students enroll in Valley Virtual, a Student Network/Internet User Agreement will be signed by both the student and parent. This agreement states that the network is provided for students to conduct research and complete assignments. A filtering device is also installed on every computer which helps us keep users safe the school protected.
What is College Credit Plus (CCP)?
Ohio’s new College Credit Plus can help you earn college and high school credits at the same time by taking college courses from community colleges or universities. The purpose of this program is to promote rigorous academic pursuits and to provide a wide variety of options to college-ready students. Taking a college course from a public college or university College Credit Plus is free. That means no cost for tuition, books or fees. If you choose to attend a private college or university, you may have limited costs. Please use the following links for more information:
https://www.ohiohighered.org/
Valley Virtual may have an agreement with a local college for specific courses, however, you can choose to take College Credit Plus courses from any college that offers a course that would benefit your future. This could include online courses.
All information posted is subject to change and more information will be posted as it becomes available.
Does Valley Virtual have summer school? Is it free?
Valley Virtual does not have summer school. The Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio has a summer school for pay during June-July. This is an option, but payment must be made prior to the start of summer school. More information can be obtained by speaking with a Valley Virtual staff member.
Sue Forsythe, Coordinator
s.forsythe@valleyvirtual.org