Weekly Wellness Checks

Supporting Student Safety and Success

At Pennsylvania Virtual Charter School (PA Virtual), the health, safety, and well-being of our students are a top priority. Pennsylvania law requires all cyber charter schools to complete a Weekly Wellness Check for every enrolled student during each instructional week that includes three or more instructional days.

Weekly Wellness Checks help us stay connected with students, support their academic success, and ensure they have the resources they need to participate in school.

What is a Weekly Wellness Check?

A Weekly Wellness Check is a brief interaction during which a PA Virtual staff member:

• Sees the student through a live video interaction.

• Communicates with the student in real time.

• Confirms the student's well-being and continued engagement in school.

This requirement applies to all PA Virtual students and all students in cyber charter schools in Pennsylvania. 

How can my student complete a Weekly Wellness Check?

Students may complete their Weekly Wellness Check through many regular school activities, including:

• Live classroom instruction

• Homeroom

• Individual teacher meetings

• Office hours or tutoring sessions

• Counseling or support meetings

• Health screenings

• Approved virtual school activities

• Approved in-person school events

• Other live meetings with authorized PA Virtual staff

Most students naturally complete their Weekly Wellness Check by participating in their regular instructional program.

What happens if my student misses a Weekly Wellness Check?

If a student has not completed a Weekly Wellness Check during the instructional week, PA Virtual will reach out to the student and parent or guardian to provide support and schedule an opportunity to complete the required check.

Our goal is always to:

• Connect with the student.

• Identify any barriers to participation.

• Provide assistance and support.

• Ensure the student's health and well-being.

If we are unable to verify a student's well-being after multiple outreach attempts, Pennsylvania law requires additional follow-up, which may include a Wellness Review Conference and, when necessary, an in-person wellness check.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. Pennsylvania law allows certain exceptions when appropriate, including:

• Excused student absences

• Excused absences for an entire instructional week

• Documented internet or power outages

Whenever possible, PA Virtual will work with families to reschedule a missed Weekly Wellness Check.

How can families help?

Families play an important role in helping students remain engaged and connected throughout the school year. Parents and guardians can support the Weekly Wellness Check process by:

• Encouraging students to participate in live instructional and support opportunities.

• Responding promptly to communications from PA Virtual staff.

• Notifying the school of excused absences or technology issues.

• Keeping contact information current.

• Contacting the school whenever assistance or additional support is needed.

Questions?

If you have questions about Weekly Wellness Checks or need assistance scheduling a wellness check, please contact your student's Family Support Coordinator, teacher, or building administrator. Our team is here to help and support your student's success.