Beyond the Classroom
Unique Education in West Virginia
Written by Megan Bevins
E ducation is expanding in the Mountain State but not just in traditional classroom or collegiate settings. Programs offering unique methods of learning are giving West Virginians of different ages, backgrounds and skill sets the opportunity to learn in ways that are fun, interactive and best suit their goals.
Online schooling is growing in popularity, and the West Virginia Virtual Academy( WVVA), a tuition-free K-12 program, offers an engaging, effective option for remote learners that is staffed by state-certified teachers.
To support online success, the WVVA provides a recommended supplies list, technical and customer support and requires students to log in between five and six hours daily with a learning coach to guide and engage them in the curriculum. Students in good standing may also take part in the Flex program, allowing greater independence and flexibility.
Though online, the WVVA has many options that help prepare for the future. Students gain access to career and technical education from the time they are in sixth grade and can begin earning certifications in ninth grade. They can also participate in the TechBridge program, which allows them to continue their online learning while also attending a local tech center in person. For those wanting to earn college credit, the academy offers dual-credit courses.
“ These offerings reflect the WVVA’ s commitment to career and college readiness, integrating industry-aligned pathways and academic rigor,” says Doug Cipoletti, executive director of the WVVA.
The WVVA supports student well-being through a partnership with the Cook Center for Human Connection, offering counseling, parenting sessions and a Q & A therapist forum. To keep students socially connected, the WVVA provides online options like a virtual hangout zone and in-person events, including prom, graduation, field trips and clubs.“ The comprehensive counseling program includes personal and group counseling, career exploration, study skills instruction, parent outreach, academic advising and postsecondary planning, ensuring students’ emotional, social and personal growth are addressed alongside academics,” Cipoletti says.
At the West Virginia STEAM Technical Assistance Center( STEAM TAC), classroom immersions are integrating real-world challenges into schools across the state that educate students and teachers on what STEAM can do.
These immersions, available for middle and high school students, provide transdisciplinary learning that connects
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