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Virtual Edmond is a program designed to serve families of students in grades 6-12 who desire:
A customized, robust, virtual education.
The best of a traditional educational experience, coupled with the flexibility of an online program that can be accessed from anywhere at any time.
A program that aligns with Oklahoma Academic Standards and offers a self-paced education option.
The ability for middle and high school students to participate in on-site extracurricular activities with their peers.
Virtual Edmond students also have the opportunity to participate in on-site extracurricular activities with their peers. 6-12th grade Virtual Edmond students may participate in extracurricular activities and/or clubs in Edmond Public Schools. For some activities, the student may need to be enrolled in a traditional class such as football or choir in order to participate in competitions or contests. Students also need to maintain eligibility according to OSSAA in order to participate in games or contests.
Edmond students in grades 6-12 use the APEX curriculum, with lessons overseen by a highly qualified, certified Edmond teacher.
This student view of the APEX dashboard will walk you through how students will access the curriculum.
Who can participate?
Any 6-12 student who is enrolled in Edmond Public Schools, lives within Edmond Public School boundaries. VE works best for self-motivated students who can work independently and who have a learning coach such as a parent or guardian to assist as needed.
Is there a cost to participate?
There is no cost to participate in Virtual Edmond.
Do I need to have internet access?
Yes. Reliable, high-speed internet access is necessary to access and complete virtual lessons, grades, and teacher support. If this is a barrier for your family, please follow this link for low-cost internet alternatives.
Do I need to purchase a computer?
No, the district provides a device (Chromebook or iPad).
What will my child study?
The subjects in Virtual Edmond are the same grade-appropriate core subjects as those of in-school students as well as electives. Elementary students will have health and art one semester and then PE and technology second semester. Middle School electives are set and preselected by grade level. High school students will have a larger number of elective courses based on their individual interests.
What company is providing the curriculum?
Grades 6-12 curriculum is provided through APEX Learning.
Will My Child Be in Front of a Screen All Day?
No. Screen time will be determined depending on their course load and the type of subjects they study. The involvement of the learning coach (parent or guardian) will be crucial to ensuring that the student is not spending too much time in front of a screen.
What is the role of the parent or guardian?
Parents and guardians serve as the learning coach. Parents should be available to monitor progress several times throughout the week. It is important that parents help the student stay focused and on a schedule.
What if we discover Virtual Edmond is not the right fit?
We want to ensure students are placed in a successful learning environment and understand that online learning may not be for every student. A student can drop an online class within the first 14 days without any consequences. The student, parent/guardian, and teacher work together to make this decision.
Is this program a good fit for students who are homeschooled?
Yes! Families who choose to homeschool may enroll in Virtual Edmond while maintaining control of their child’s at-home learning environment. Virtual Edmond offers a board-approved elementary, middle, and high school curriculum that is comprehensive and aligned to Oklahoma’s state standards. Grades and transcripts will be issued by EPS.
How much time do students have to complete courses?
Students have the same time to complete the course as students in traditional school. The program will show if the student is on track to finish on time. It is important to not get behind in the program. However, there is the flexibility to work ahead and take breaks as desired.
Will my child be required to take standardized tests?
Yes. All EPS students must complete state standardized tests. Formative and summative assessments throughout the year help develop the skills needed to perform well on state tests. Virtual Edmond teachers will let you know where and when your child is scheduled to test.
Do the classes count for NCAA credits for high school?
Yes! But we must know your child is a potential NCAA candidate to make sure they are enrolled in the correct courses.
Do students have access to school libraries?
Yes. Students have access to their school site library during regular school hours.
Is all coursework done on the computer?
No. Students participate in a variety of offline educational activities and projects, which are evaluated by the teacher.
What are the benefits of participation?
In addition to a self-paced, flexible education solution, students have the opportunity to develop skills such as organization, initiative, responsibility, and time management.
What challenges should I consider before deciding to enroll?
Students, with the assistance of the parent, must make a greater effort to stay organized, create a schedule, manage their time, and work toward staying on pace to complete their coursework. As a parent/guardian, you will need to work closely with your child to help monitor their progress.
What if my child has special needs?
Parents of children with disabilities on a Section 504 Accommodation Plan or on an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will want to meet with their team to determine which virtual program is the best placement for their child.
Can gifted students participate?
Yes. The program can provide advanced learners with opportunities for accelerated and individualized learning. Since virtual instruction makes one-on-one learning possible with check-ins and chat sessions with a teacher, the student may accelerate the pace of classes in some cases to meet their needs. Advanced Placement courses may also be available to meet your child’s needs.
What computer skills are necessary?
Participating students will need some basic skills with regard to computer use, as it is an important part of the program. In early grades, the parent plays an integral role in interacting with the computer.
What if we have technical issues?
If technical issues arise your child’s online teacher(s) will be there for initial support. For additional technical support, please go to Virtual Edmond Technology.
Middle and High Schools:
For more information, contact Brandon Kysar.