Frequently Asked Questions

The Virtual Learning Academy of St. Clair County (VLA) is a public school academy chartered by the St. Clair County Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA). The VLA is a fully accredited high school offering a state-certified high school diploma. Online courses meet the same Michigan Merit Curriculum Standards as a traditional school. 

VLA blends online learning anytime, anywhere, with actual classroom time. VLA students go through an orientation designed to help them become successful, independent learners now and after graduation. VLA offers a professional learning environment similar to a community college. Students have direct access to state-certified teacher mentors who can work one-on-one with students in person at the school and online. 

The most significant difference from a traditional school is that VLA offers greater class flexibility and an excellent student-to-teacher ratio to accommodate every student's needs. 

VLA serves a wide variety of St. Clair County 9th- through 12th-grade high school students, including those who have been:

• Expelled or dropped out of a traditional high school 
• At-risk of falling behind or dropping out of traditional high school
• Directly referred by a high school counselor or principal
• Other underserved student population

Students must graduate by age 22 or if they require special education services by age 26.
 

The Virtual Learning Academy is free, like any other public high school. 

VLA's program coordinator will be happy to answer questions regarding VLA's curriculum options for homeschooled students and families. 

VLA students must earn 18 credits mandated by the state of Michigan:

• 4 Mathematics
• 4 English language arts
• 3 Science 
• 3 Social studies
• 2 World language
• 1 Physical education and health
• 1 Visual/Performing/Applied Arts

VLA students do not need to complete the 4 additional elective credits required at traditional district schools. This often allows students who are behind to catch up,

Yes! Students can work at their own pace. This allows for the opportunity to complete more than six classes per semester and potentially graduate early. 

VLA provides free bus tickets for the Blue Water Area Transit system for students who need transportation. Students with a driver's license can drive to school after filling out a VLA driving permit. Students may also obtain rides from parents, guardians, other family members, and friends. 

Attendance expectations vary from student to student. During orientation, attendance at the school is required five days a week from 9 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. After a student completes orientation, they will then work with staff to create an individualized learning plan. That plan includes an attendance plan/agreement, student goals, and opportunities to explore possibilities after graduation. 

Orientation is an in-person requirement that lets students get to know VLA teachers and how the VLA works. Orientation prepares students to work independently in their online courses. It also allows students to prepare for state testing, explore college and career options, and gain a skill set for their transition into society (job applications, resume, online portfolio, etc.) Orientation helps students with low math and reading abilities to polish their skills. 

VLA is a year-round program. The building is open to students Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. except for holidays, vacation weeks, and other scheduled building closures. Students and parents will be notified when the building is closed due to bad weather or other reasons. 

Yes, students are assigned a Chromebook on their first day of orientation. If needed, the VLA will provide computer and Internet access to students who have completed the orientation session. 

Students working from home have access to their classes 24/7. They can communicate with teacher mentors through Google Chat, phone call, text, email, or Google Meet (face-to-face). Teacher mentors are available:  

• Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m., 6–9 p.m.
• Saturday: 6–9 p.m.
• Sunday: 6–9 p.m.

VLA provides breakfast and lunch. Students may also bring snacks, food, and drinks with them. Vending machines are available at a low cost. Fresh produce from VLA's garden is available when in season. 

VLA staff is here to help each student succeed in life, not just with earning their diploma. VLA staff know their students as individuals and can offer access to programs and career-building services to help them with the next steps after graduation. 

Submit an online Contact Form or call 810-364-1362 to schedule an informational meeting.