How It Works
Curious how online learning works?
With online learning, your child can learn at home, or wherever there's an internet connection, while enjoying the benefits and support of a school program. They'll complete a mix of online lessons and offline activities, using K12-provided books and materials.* State-licensed teachers provide instruction in virtual sessions called "Class Connects."
What to Expect
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What's my role as a parent?
You'll play an active and important role as your child's Learning Coach. Plan to:
- Provide academic support, motivation, and guidance throughout the school year
- Ensure your child is on track with assignments and coursework
- Communicate with teachers
- Report daily attendance
If you or your child's legal guardian are unable to fill this role, you can choose a family member, friend, or another trusted adult to be the Learning Coach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to attend North Carolina Virtual Academy (NCVA)?
NCVA offers full-time enrollment for grades K–12. Kindergarteners must be five years old on or before August 31 to be eligible for the program.
How many of my children can I enroll in NCVA?
Because NCVA provides the lesson plans and materials needed for grades K–12, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program.
What does it cost to attend NCVA?
Because NCVA is a public school program, there is no tuition. We provide North Carolina-licensed teachers and instructional materials. Families are responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). Our enrollment consultants can help address your technology and computer questions and needs.
What is the attendance policy?
As North Carolina public school students, all NCVA students must comply with the state-required minimum number of 185 instructional days.
Can our family take a vacation during the school year?
The school calendar includes school holidays or vacation time. Whenever possible, family vacations should align with school vacation days. Parents are encouraged to contact their student's teacher if they plan a vacation that does not coordinate with the school calendar.
How much time will my child spend online?
In the younger grades, many of the online lessons include offline work. Students in grades K–2 spend about 30–40 percent of their time on the computer, while students in grades 3–5 spend about 50–60 percent of their time online. Screen time increases in middle school, and by high school, most of the school day is online.
How do students interact socially?
Students spend time with classmates online and through school outings, field trips, and other activities. In addition to school-based clubs, K12 online national clubs help connect students with like interests and passions.
How do you help students who need extra support?
Our Family Academic Support Team (FAST) empowers students to overcome challenges—whether they're academic, social, emotional, medical, or otherwise—to succeed in school and beyond. This holistic approach includes early intervention, support services, and linking families to school and community-based resources. FAST members and teachers work with families to provide the extra help needed to enable students to stay motivated and on track.
*Course materials vary by course. Please check with NCVA staff to see what offline course materials are provided.
Socialization