FCPS Virtual Academy

Franklin County Public Schools (FCPS) Virtual Academy

The FCPS Virtual Academy is a Multi-Division Online Provider (MOP) program designed for Franklin County residents who are currently homeschooling and wish to re-engage with the school division, as well as for current FCPS families considering a homeschooling option. Before making the decision to homeschool, a family might consider the Virtual Academy option if it is a good fit for the student. Students enrolled in the Virtual Academy remain fully enrolled Franklin County High School students while completing coursework online, primarily through our virtual program, Imagine Learning.

This program offers a flexible yet rigorous learning experience that closely aligns with the in-person curriculum. Students receive quality remote instruction while maintaining their connection to Franklin County Public Schools, including access to school events, clubs, field trips, athletics, and graduation activities. While coursework is remote, students are expected to participate in state testing in an in person proctored environment.

Enrollment in the Virtual Academy is application-based and includes a comprehensive review of multiple data points, such as parent input, student grades, attendance, behavior, ability to work independently, and input from the school. New enrollments are accepted only at the start of a semester (Fall or Spring). Students participating in the Virtual Academy must reapply each semester to ensure continued eligibility, academic success, and alignment with program expectations.

Program Structure

FCPS will work closely with students and Imagine Learning to schedule courses that closely align with course offerings for in-person students. For some courses, like Health & PE Grades 6 through 8 and courses that are specialized, like Driver’s Education/PE 10, the Virtual Academy partners with a FCPS, VA Certified teacher to teach a virtual section of these courses. All virtual courses are accessed via the Imagine Learning Portal with the exception of FCPS taught courses, which are accessed via Canvas. If a student needs to take a course that is not approved through Imagine Learning, they may need to take the course in person.

Virtual Learning is a unique academic experience. Most of the instruction is asynchronous which means students are responsible for learning material without the benefit of daily direct instruction provided by a teacher. Content is taught via video, course readings, and course assignments. Teachers in Imagine Learning courses are certified educators and provide feedback to students on their work, are available for one on one virtual meetings to help clarify content and provide academic support, and to communicate with students; however, the program only has online synchronous classes for elementary English Language Arts. All other courses are asynchronous. Students also do not have the opportunity to work with peers. While this style of instruction works for some students, it does not work for all students.

Important to Consider

Learning in the virtual environment is unique and very different from in-person courses. It requires a lot of independence and self motivation. Student success is most important, therefore there is an application process for participation. Please consider your child’s ability to work independently and online before submitting an application. Applications and eligibility are reviewed on a semester basis.

Students are only eligible to enroll in the Virtual Academy at a semester change (the beginning of the school year and at the end of first semester). In order to remain eligible for participation each semester, students must adhere to the Virtual Academy expectations.

To remain eligible for the FCPS Virtual Academy students must stay less than 10% behind pace in all of their courses, have a passing grade in all of their courses (59 or higher), and actively participate by completing assignments on time and communicating with their teachers as needed.

Parents and guardians who are interested in their child participating, can contact the Virtual Academy Administrator and have be put on a “contact list” to receive an application when the window opens. More information can be found on the Enrollment page.

Contact Information

If you are interested in learning more about FCPS Virtual Academy, contact Karen Weaver, Virtual Academy Administrator 540-483-5128 or Jennifer Talley, FCPS Homeschool Coordinator 540-483-5138

Additional Contact Information

Virtual Academy Administrator: Karen Weaver | 540-483-5128
Homeschool Coordinator: Jennifer Talley| 540-483-5138
Special Education Teacher & Case Manager: Chandler Hunt | 540-483-0221
Virtual PE Teachers: TBD (second semester)
School Contacts: Principal (Elementary) | Dana Furrow (BFMS) I School Counselor (FCHS)
Support Services: Individual contacts at each school (School Counselors, Gifted Education, 504, IEP, etc.)
FCHS Administrator: Teresa Sanders | 540-483-0221