Wauwatosa School District Launching Online Program for Students

The Wauwatosa School District is launching a tuition-free statewide virtual learning program for students in grades 6-12.

Wauwatosa Virtual Academy, launching 2013- 2014, will combine a rigorous, standards-based online curriculum, individualized student support and a flexible schedule that lets students complete their school work whenever and wherever works best for them, according to a release.

Discussions of online schooling started last year when Superintendent Phil Ertl spoke of a vision that someday Wauwatosa would be a center of online learning for the entire state.

The Wauwatosa School District already uses Advanced Academics online courses to supplement its current program for targeted student populations.

Ertl said in a release that the success of its own students encouraged the district to expand its online offerings internally and to launch a statewide virtual program.

“The Wauwatosa School District is known for offering a wide variety of educational options, including Montessori and STEM programs, to meet our students’ learning needs,” said Ertl. “Wauwatosa Virtual Academy expands our offerings to include a full-time online program that will give middle and high school students statewide a quality educational option.”

The program will feature a comprehensive curriculum, including Advanced Placement courses and a wide variety of electives. Experienced Wisconsin-certified teachers will be available to offer students one-on-one tutoring and instruction in real time during the school week.

Wauwatosa Virtual Academy will comply with all Wisconsin graduation requirements and feature a full middle and high school curriculum aligned to both state and Common Core standards. Students will have online access to state-licensed teachers who can provide immediate assistance 24 hours a day Monday through Friday, while technical support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The program can benefit many students, including students who have not excelled in a traditional school setting; home-schooled students; advanced learners wanting to progress at an accelerated pace; students who need a flexible schedule in order to pursue outside interests; and many others, according to the release.

Wauwatosa Virtual Academy is accepting applications for the 2013-14 school year during the open enrollment period ending April 30. Interested students and parents can learn more at the following information sessions:

Wauwatosa – all sessions at Wauwatosa School District Central Office, 12121 W. North Ave.

• Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m.
• Saturday, March 9, 10 a.m.
• Saturday, March 23, 10 a.m.
• Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m.

 For more information, go to www.WauwatosaVirtualAcademy.com or contact Dennis Mahony, Wauwatosa School District virtual program administrator, at 414-257-4857.