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.* Louisiana-certified teachers provide instruction in virtual sessions called “Class Connects.”
What to Expect
LAVCA Programs
Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy (LAVCA) use quality curriculum from K12 that’s designed to let students find the learning style that works best for them, allowing them to find their own path to success. Each online classroom offers engaging and relevant lessons that build on your child’s interests and abilities.
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 Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy (LAVCA)?
The Louisiana Virtual Charter Academy serves full-time students in grades K–12 who are residents of the state of Louisiana.
How many of my children can I enroll in LAVCA?
Because LAVCA provides the lesson plans and materials needed for grades K–12, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program. We currently have families with as many as five children enrolled in other public virtual schools being guided by one Learning Coach or mentor in conjunction with the support of state-certified teachers.
What does it cost to attend LAVCA?
LAVCA is a public school, so there is no tuition. We provide Louisiana-certified teachers and instructional materials. Students and families will be responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). Each family will be required to have a computer that meets the minimum specifications necessary to access the K12 Online School (OLS). Families must also have internet access in order to participate in the school. In certain cases based on financial need, LAVCA may loan a computer to an enrolling family. This determination will take place during the enrollment process.
Can our family take a vacation during the school year?
The school calendar includes school holidays or vacation time. You will not have access to your assigned teacher(s) during this time, but you can continue to do school work. Whenever possible, family vacations should align with school vacation days. Parents are encouraged to contact their 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?
Throughout the year, students have the opportunity to participate in school outings, picnics, and other social events. These outings and activities may include trips to museums and parks, student clubs, and more. We expect local clusters of students and parents to get together on a regular basis in their areas. With online discussions and forums, new types of communities can be formed that are based not on geography but on shared interests.
*Course materials vary by course and school.