START HERE...

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Are you considering virtual school for your child(ren) for the 2020-2021 school year? In the Lauderdale County School System, this is an opt-in choice for you. There are, however, some things to consider before you make the decision.

As with any school option, virtual learning requires a commitment of time each day—your child will need time and space to focus on learning for several hours.

Additionally, your child will need adult supervision and some adult help while learning at home. It will be a commitment on your part to choose virtual learning for your child.

Ready to go? Go to the Register page and get started. We are waiting for you there. Or, read the Question/Answer section below.

• What if we give virtual school a try and don’t like the virtual school? May we enroll our child back into his/her school?

Virtual school enrollment is a semester-long commitment. This is a big decision and one that should be made carefully for your child and your family.

• If a device/computer is not available at home, will my child be issued a device from school?

Yes, if your child needs a device, one may be checked out from your school. The standard device usage fee of $40.00 will still apply.

• What are other requirements for attending the virtual school?

1. You must have reliable wi-fi access at home. If you have questions about internet accessibility at your home please contact your child's school.

2. Any device that you have at home must be compatible. Devices should have a minimum of 9.7" screen, students in grades 4-12 need a physical keyboard, and it should run a currently supported version of iPadOS, MacOS, ChromeOS, or Windows.

3. Video-conferencing capabilities. Throughout the semester, your child may need to participate in video conferencing for learning assignments.

4. You will need to be able to set time limits for your child(ren)—your child will need to spend several hours each day in virtual learning.

5. You will need to be able to help your child meet learning goals—keeping your child moving forward in learning on time and at a pace that will allow them to meet school expectations.

6. It is recommended that virtual learners have strong reading and computer navigation skills, as virtual learning will be even more challenging without these skills.

7. Space to learn—can your child find a quiet place to complete assignments and focus on learning?

• What is the deadline for registering for virtual school?

Students may enroll in Virtual School at any time during the semester. Once enrolled you will be required to committ to the entire semester. Understand that students will start each course from the beginning and there will be no adjusments to the courses.

• What will the virtual school be like and will my child interact with an LCSS teacher?

Students choosing the virtual education option will be assigned classes on a virtual platform. Progress will be monitored by an assigned facilitator. These students will not be taught by the same teacher who is teaching the traditional class. Parental contact will be made by the facilitator for such issues as missed assignments, failed assignments, or failing to log in and attempt the coursework.

• If we choose the virtual school option, can my child participate in extracurricular activities at their home school?

Yes, your child(ren) will be able to participate in extracurricular activities at their home school following the guidelines established by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA).

• Will my child receive a school lunch if we choose the virtual option?

Yes, your child may participate in the school lunch program. Pick-up options are being arranged and will be shared from your school.