1. Virtual High Schools Practicalities and Possibilities: Ellen M. Nosal

2. The Virtual High School Movement An Invitation to a Revolution –corresponding learning –educational choices –globalization of education Concerns: –the way it’s always been done –loss of peer-to-peer interaction and socialization –the digital divide

3. Educational Choices New course offerings No limits on enrollment Home schooled Home bound students Transfer students Special needs students Family needs Jobs Older set getting diplomas Advanced degrees

4. Globalization of Education Boundaries, Boarders and Time Zones -Limitations of the past

5. The Virtual High School Learner Who is served by the VHS? –Accelerated students –Students needing credit –Students with disabilities Characteristics of the VHS learner –Self motivated –Comfortable with technology or willing to learn –Able to manage time effectively

6. Accelerated learner A transfer student needing to make up credit Classes not offered at school Canceling a of class do to low enrollment Special needs student Homebound student Older student getting diploma Typical Online Student

7. Responsibilities: Students and Instructors Trust Motivation Questions and answers Pacing Support -technological -academic

8. The Current State of the Art: Programs and Courses Effective programs: Work closely with home schools for admissions and the transfer of credits Web site should be easy to navigate Program has a history of success Program has standard technology requirements Internet access, computer processor etc. Programs need to be cost effective

9. Courses: Offer curriculum similar to home school Offer advanced placement classes Have standards are aligned to state Teachers are state certified or nationally certified The Current State of the Art: Programs and Courses

10. Choose the style of learning that best fits your needs Do you need deadlines? Can you pace yourself? Do you have a quiet place to study? How well do you know the software? Are you comfortable with technology?

11. Benefits, Issues, and Concerns Your time Your path Your pace

12. Benefits, Issues, and Concerns Responsibility Federal regulations Funding Accreditation Property rights

13. Benefits, Issues, and Concerns Cheating Plagiarism Fraud

14. Recommendations Go with a program that fits our needs Shop for the best price Seek a flexible and expandable program Get a partnership A track record of good business practices Excellent customer service

15. Have dynamic teachers on board early Have professional development in place Take an inventory of technology -What do we have? -What we need? Have adequate funding appropriated Have students ready to lead the way To Do List….

16. Success