Pennsylvania Online
Schools
Pennsylvania has a highly organized, technically sound online educational
system. The schools have had their battles with local
departments of education and school boards, worried that more students will opt out of their systems and force their districts to pay for the
cyber school of the student's choosing. These schools are the grandaddys of cyber charter
education, operating for a number of years successfully in such a new phenomenon in education. Schools that were regional have now gone
statewide as the Pennsylvania Department of education has continued to support PA cyber schools in the courts.
But some schools still serve just the districts or intermediate units where
they are located so check each site for enrollment information. Also, cyber schools are sometimes K-8, K-10, K-12 or 9-12 so make sure
you ask when you call.
PA LEARNERS Online
(PALO)
http://www.palearnersonline.com/A1/index.asp
PA Learners Online is a regional cyber charter school serving students in grades kindergarten through 12th
grade. PALO is a public school managed by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU #3). Any student who is between the ages of 5 and 21 and is a resident of Pennsylvania may apply for enrollment to PALO.
21st Century Cyber Charter School http://www.21stcenturycyber.org/
From their website:
How Cyber School Works -
Our students connect over the Internet to their classrooms, web casts, and email using a school computer and Internet service. There are
some activities that can be completed offline, but most student work is completed online.
Most of the core subjects use traditional textbooks, augmented with
supplemental materials online. Some textbooks are also available on CD.
Classes typically have a posted syllabus with weekly due dates. In general, work can be completed any time of the day
during the week.
Students and parents can log into classes at any time to check progress and grades, and progress reports are mailed
frequently.
We use standardized tests to confirm placement for new students, and to gauge progress for the school year.
While email is our primary communication tool, we contact students and parents regularly by telephone. Teachers all
have office hours during which they are
available by phone to answer questions and consult with families.
We follow a traditional school calendar, which is flexible to accommodate student needs. "
Pennsylvania Virtual Charter School http://www.pavcs.org/
From their website: As a public charter school, the Pennsylvania Virtual Charter School (PAVCS) makes it easy for you to get actively
involved in your children's education. Under the guidance of teachers, parents help children learn at home using comprehensive educational
materials provided by PAVCS in conjunction with K12 Inc., our school's curriculum supplier. Teachers manage the learning process and ensure that
students achieve mastery of learning objectives. They also provide instruction, guidance, and support, focusing on their individual needs.
Because PAVCS is a public charter school, there is no tuition.
Do I need to own a computer to attend the school?
No. Each enrolled student will be loaned a computer system (including computer, printer, software, and reimbursement for Internet connection)
from the school to support the learning process. These computer systems and printed materials are school property and must be returned to the
school when the student leaves the school. The school will arrange for technical support and troubleshooting for these systems.
Achievement House Cyber Charter School http://www.achievementcharter.com/
From their website: Achievement House Charter School is a public Pennsylvania Cyber Charter High School. Any high school student
residing in Pennsylvania is eligible to enroll. Students are able to meet their high school requirements and receive a diploma. School is open
all day, every day during school year. There is no tuition.
Achievement House Charter School is a public school serving grades 9 - 12, chartered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, with a
vision for reaching under achieving students across our state. As a public school, there is no tuition. Our school is supported by
tax dollars. We provide each student with a computer, printer, internet connection, text books and other curriculum material and an
interactive technology so that students can accomplish their school work from home or elsewhere in a flexible format and pace.
Connections Academy http://www.connectionsacademy.com/
From their website: Welcome to Connections Academy —the free K–10 public schooling program that students attend from home.
Enjoy flexible schedules, strong parental involvement and the accountability of your public school system.
We’ll personalize a program for your child that includes a proven curriculum, technology tools and expert support from certified teachers.
See why so many parents are choosing Connections Academy!
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