General
What is the Sturgeon Public Virtual Academy?
The Sturgeon Public Virtual Academy (SPVA) is a new online educational program designed for students in Grades 8 and 9. SPVA was created as an option for families that would like to keep their children at home, while learning 100 per cent online in a high-quality education program.
How do I know if the Virtual Academy is right for my child?
While all of our programs are designed to meet the individual needs of students, the Virtual Academy is best suited for students that:
- Are highly motivated and independent learners with good time management skills;
- Are able to engage in the daily routines and expectations of an online school;
- Can ask for help, make contact with other students and teacher(s) online, and describe problems with learning materials;
- Have medical issues which make in-person classes difficult; and
- Are transitioning from home education.
How do I know if the Virtual Academy is right for our family?
Critical to the success of our students in online programming is a shared commitment. We are asking our parents/guardians to be a supportive participant in their child’s online education. We believe a parent/guardian commitment is required to realize a successful online learning experience where there is a shared responsibility on the part of the student, parent/guardian, and teacher. This is especially critical in the middle years. Student success at all grades is tied to regular attendance and engagement.
What does the program’s school calendar look like?
The Virtual Academy follows Sturgeon Public Schools’ calendar and is required to meet the provincial mandated 180 days and 1,098 hours of instructional time, just like our face-to-face buildings.
If I enroll my student for the Virtual Academy for the fall, can I change my mind?
Sturgeon Public Schools is asking families to commit for the full year. In doing so, we can adequately plan for staffing.
How do I enrol my child in the Virtual Academy?
Parents wish to registering their child in the Virtual Academy are asked to please indicate that choice when completing the Registration Page in PowerSchool.
Is there a cost to participate in the Virtual Academy?
Outside of regular school fees, there is no additional tuition costs attached to the Virtual Academy.
Will technology be supplied by the school?
Parents/guardians will need to ensure their child has a Chromebook, laptop, or desktop computer with Windows 10 or higher. It is imperative to have a reliable internet connection.
What Learning Management System (LMS) will be used?
Students will engage with their teachers and one another through Google Meet and Google Classroom - all a part of Sturgeon’s Google Suite.