Successful online students:
- Are self motivated
- Are independent learners who can direct their own learning
- Are at or above Grade Level in Reading
- Have good written communication skills
- Have good reading comprehension skills
- Are able to manage their time and set goals
- Have access to parent/guardian/mentor support
Q: Is online learning easier than a traditional high school education?
A: In an online environment, students must take personal responsibility for their own learning. Students must be able to communicate both orally and in writing, be a self-starter, be self-disciplined, remain self-motivated and be able to independently stay on task. Parents also play a vital role in assuring their student’s success. Parents/guardians must be willing to offer the ongoing encouragement, motivation, and guidance for their student. Thus, online learning requires both students and parents to be personally responsible and accountable for the academic progress of the student. Online learning is not easier or quicker.
Q: Flexibility–what does that mean?
A: An online environment provides students with the ability to work on their courses at times that are convenient for them throughout the day (FLVS Global School courses are available 24/7, 365 days of the year). However, flexibility does not provide the students with the option to NOT work daily. Students are expected to make continuous daily and weekly progress (the act of a student completing and submitting assignments/assessments) in the classes in which they are enrolled.
Q: Do you have real teachers?
A: Absolutely! All of our FLVS teachers hold current Colorado certificates in their subject area with some who are National Board Certified. All students have access to FLVS Global School certificated teachers that communicate with students on a regular basis by phone, email, text, ZOOM, and online discussions. Instructors are expected to respond to all communications within 24 hours and to have all assignments graded within 48 hours. Additional support, including a full-time mathematics instructor, half-time science instructor, and full-time Language Arts instructor is provided as needed for students at St. Vrain Virtual High School’s physical site, 1200 South Sunset Street, during normally scheduled hours.
Q: Do you have a guidance counselor?
A: Definitely! Academic counseling, including transcript review, course registration advice, college/career planning and Social-Emotional Support are provided by the St. Vrain Virtual High School counselor. If a parent/guardian or student has a concern about learning accommodations, contact the St. Vrain Virtual High School counselor.
Q: Are you accredited?
A: The FLVS Global School provides most of our courses and curriculum. FLVS pioneered virtual learning for public schools and has won many honors and awards since their inception. Highly qualified and certified teachers teach all online courses, and the curriculum meets Colorado State Standards. The NCAA Clearinghouse also approves the Florida Virtual School core course curriculum and the College Board approves advanced placement courses.
Q: Do you provide me with an iPad?
A: All students are issued a school iPad with a keyboard case.
Q: Do I need to purchase textbooks or other materials?
A: All course materials are provided online. Should a particular course (i.e., English or Science) need any special books/materials, they will be provided (loaned) to the student by St. Vrain Virtual High School. All books/materials are to be returned once the course has been completed.
Q: How many hours are spent per week in the online environment?
A: Students are expected to complete a minimum of 6 courses each semester. Each course takes approximately 60 hours and one course should be completed every 3-5 weeks, provided the student is logging in and submitting a minimum of three assignments daily. Students should be committing 4 – 5 hours daily to their courses on a regular basis.
Q: How long does it take to finish a course?
A: Most courses can be completed in 3-5 weeks allowing students to promptly order new classes.
Q: What kind of interactions will a student have with staff and other students?
A: Students will connect with their Staff Mentor daily. Additionally, they will have opportunities to connect with other students during Grade Level Meetings, Community of Strength and Test prep Classes. Students also initiate interest groups each year based on their preferences.
Q: Can parents/guardians monitor their student’s progress?
A: Yes. Both students and parents will have a user name and password to the FLVS student management system. This access provides information about pacing, assignments, and grades. Parents/Guardians: to set up your parent account, you will need your student’s FLVS username and password. To set up your parent/guardian account, visit flvs.net.