Online Learning Handbook

Description

First Choice Online Academy (FCOA) is Oklahoma City Public Schools’ fully online learning pathway for students in grades K–12th. FCOA is designed to provide a flexible, rigorous, and innovative learning experience that supports academic achievement, social-emotional development, and college and career readiness through a blended learning model.

Vision

To provide more equitable access to a world-class education, OKCPS will establish Oklahoma’s first district-led, equity-centered online learning community, empowering every student with opportunities tailored to their individual needs.

Mission

The mission of OKCPS’s equity-centered online learning community is to deliver a flexible, student-driven education that meets the diverse needs of all learners. Through rigorous instruction, innovative technology, and strong community partnerships, we equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in school, career, and life.

Enrollment Windows

• Fall Semester: April 20 – August 31

• Spring Semester: November – January

Semester Commitment

All students enrolled in FCOA must commit to the program for the full semester. This commitment ensures consistency and helps your child succeed. Enrollment changes are only allowed at the start of a new semester.

Who Can Enroll

Students must:

• Live within the OKCPS boundaries or have an approved transfer

• Commit to a full semester of online learning

• Meet academic progress and attendance requirements

• Complete registration in Infinite Campus

Important: Students enrolled in application schools (Classen SAS, Southeast, Belle Isle) must transfer to their neighborhood/home school before enrolling in FCOA.

Elementary (Grades K–6)

• Standards-based core instruction utilizing Florida Virtual through the Buzz Platform 

• Daily lessons in Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, plus electives as appropriate

• Enrichment through blended learning activities and virtual learning experiences

Secondary (Grades 7-12)

• Core courses and electives delivered through Edgenuity

• Project-based enrichment and virtual clubs

• NCAA-compliant coursework for eligible student-athletes

• High school graduation requirements, select AP offerings, and electives

• Credit recovery options available

All incoming 9th graders are required to choose one of 4 pathways for their high school years. 

1. Business Pathway

2. Advanced Placement Pathway

3. Metro Technology Pathway

4. Computer Science Pathway

Core Learning Blocks

Students will participate in structured academic learning Monday through Friday with a designated subject focus.

Secondary Instructional Schedule 9th-12th

• Monday/Wednesday: English Language Arts & Social Studies 

• Tuesday/Thursday: Math & Science

• Fridays: Targeted intervention for Math/Science & English/SS

Elementary Instructional Schedule

• Monday–Friday: Language Arts & Math
  Tuesday/Thursday: Weaving in Science & Social Studies

• Fridays: Targeted interventions in all core subjects

Touchpoint Tuesdays (Virtual)

Weekly engagement for targeted academic support, enrichment, and community-building.

Focus Fridays (In-Person Opportunities)

Opportunities include:

• Small group instruction
  Targeted interventions (MTSS) & tutoring

• Specials (PE, Music, Art, projects)

Students are required to:

• Log in each school day (Monday–Friday)

• Complete assignments and engage in lessons

• Participate in required live sessions and small group meetings

If a Student is Not Participating:

• Families will be contacted promptly

• A Student Success Plan may be developed

• Ongoing lack of progress may result in withdrawal from the program

What Counts Toward Attendance:

• Attend Daily Teacher-led live instruction K-8

• Assigned independent practice 

• Digital activities aligned to the lesson

• Assessments or project work

• Attendance will be taken every Friday

Students may participate only if they:

• Are enrolled in the corresponding in-person course at their member (home) campus (must have room in schedule and credits)

• Attend in-person practices or classes

• Have parent-provided transportation

This requirement follows Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) policies.

Clubs and Enrichment

FCOA offers a variety of clubs, enrichment activities, and leadership opportunities to engage students beyond their core courses. These opportunities are designed to help students develop academically, socially, and creatively, while exploring new interests. Students can participate in:

• Virtual Clubs: STEM, literature, art, debate, and more.

• Project-Based Learning Activities: Hands-on projects that connect learning to real-world experiences.

• Leadership and Service Opportunities: Student councils, peer mentoring, community service projects, and other leadership roles.

• Focus Fridays (In-Person Enrichment Options): Workshops, VPA activities, small group instruction, tutoring, team-building exercises, and creative projects.

• High school students will partner with their home school sites for honors society, senior activities and events, prom, diploma pick up, yearbook sales, graduation ceremonies, and senior pictures.

Families are responsible for transportation to any in-person enrichment opportunities. Participation encourages personal growth, collaboration, and creativity.

Library Services

FCOA students have access to a wide range of academic resources, both digital and physical, to support their learning journey.

• Digital Access: As an OKCPS student, you have full access to the district's extensive digital library resources, including databases, eBooks, and research tools through your OKCPS login.

• Physical Library Access: FCOA students may also visit the FCOA campus library to check out physical books and resources( under construction) Appointments are required to ensure a staff member is available to assist you. To make an appointment, please contact your FCOA administrator. You may also visit your home campus library during school hours, but you must check in at the main office upon arrival and check out when you leave.

• • District-issued devices are required:

    1. K–2nd: iPads

    2. Grades 3rd–12th: Chromebooks

  • A reliable internet connection is required

  • All assessments must be completed on a district device with secure monitoring

Elementary (K–5)

• Standards-based grading with quarterly progress reports

• Progress is measured by the demonstration of grade-level skills

Secondary (6–12)

• Letter grades are assigned on a 50–100 scale

• Semester grades determine credit earned

• Minimum passing grade: 60%

Grade    Percentage

A  =  90–100

B  =  80–89

C  =  70–79

D  =  60–69

F  =  50–59

FCOA upholds high standards of academic honesty.

Academic Integrity

• All student work must be original

• Copying, plagiarism, or prohibited use of AI/bots/scripts is not allowed

• Violations may result in loss of credit or removal from the program

Responsible AI Use Policy

FCOA recognizes that AI tools (ChatGPT, Grammarly, math solvers, etc.) can support learning when used responsibly.

Purpose

First Choice Online Academy (FCOA) recognizes that artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, and other emerging platforms, can enhance learning, promote creativity, and support skill development. This policy guides the responsible, ethical use of AI in learning.

Permitted Uses of AI Tools

Students may use AI tools to:

• Brainstorming ideas or topics, Drafting outlines (not final work)

• Practice and review skills

• Check spelling and grammar

• Explore examples or models with mentor guidance

Prohibited Uses of AI Tools

Students may not use AI tools to:

• Submit AI-generated work as your own

• Using AI on tests, quizzes, or assessments

• Replacing personal engagement

Disclosure Requirements

Students must disclose AI use by including a note in submitted work, such as: “This work includes content generated with [Tool Name]. I have reviewed and edited the material.”

Mentor Responsibilities

• Model responsible use

• Teach students to critically evaluate AI-generated content

• Set expectations for each assignment

• Use originality detection tools when appropriate

Student Responsibilities

• Follow mentor guidance

• Be transparent about AI use

• Ensure all work reflects personal understanding and effort

Consequences for Misuse

Misuse will be treated as academic dishonesty

• May include loss of credit for the assignment

• May require a re-submission of assignment with documentation required

• Repeated violations may result in additional disciplinary action

Parent Guide to Responsible AI Use

What is AI?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools help create text, solve problems, and generate ideas using technology. Common examples include:

• ChatGPT

• Grammarly

• AI Math Solvers

Why is FCOA Using AI Tools?

AI is part of college, work, and everyday life. FCOA wants students to learn:

• How to use AI responsibly

• When to rely on their own thinking

• How to evaluate information critically

Tips for Parents

• Ask your child to explain how they used AI

• Encourage editing and critical review

• Help them understand the difference between support and substitution

Families are expected to:

• Provide a quiet, distraction-free space for learning

• Ensure your child logs in daily and completes assignments

• Check progress weekly

• Maintain communication with teachers and administrators

• Notify staff if your child experiences any significant barriers to participation

Success in online learning is a team effort. Here's how you and your child can thrive at FCOA.

For Parents & Guardians:

• Create a Routine: Help your child set up a daily schedule and a dedicated learning space.

• Log In with Them: Log in to the Buzz platform and Edgenuity with your child to monitor their progress, grades, and assignments.

• Stay Connected: Read emails and messages from your child’s mentor and school staff. All families and students are required to utilize Talking Points, email, and phone calls as a method for communication. 

• Provide Transportation: Arrange for transportation for all in-person assessments, CPR, ICAP requirements and any optional on-campus activities or electives.

For Students:

• Log in daily: Log in and spend about 2 hours per core class each day. Some lessons may take less time, others may take more, depending on your pace.

• Communicate Often: Reach out to your mentors at least once or twice a week with questions or if you need help.

• Ask for Help: Don't wait until the last minute. Tutorial help is available by contacting your FCOA mentor.

• Check Your Progress: Keep an eye on your grades and assignment deadlines to stay on track.

• All students must attend required state and district assessments in person

• Students enrolled in Athletics or VPA at their home campus must attend those in-person activities and must abide by all campus rules and procedures. 

Contact Information

First Choice Online Academy Administration

501 SE 25th Street OKC, OK 73219

Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:50 AM–3:50 PM

Phone: 405-587-3333

Email: onlinelearning@okcps.org

Principal

Dr. Misti Tope - mtope@okcps.org 

Assistant Principal

Valerie Sauls - vlsauls@okcps.org 

Counselor

Kathy Ralson - kralson@okcps.org 

Principal Secretary

Lisa Major - mlmajor@okcps.org 

This school year represents the second phase of the FCOA model. Oklahoma City Public Schools is committed to:

• Gathering student and family feedback

• Evaluating program effectiveness

• Expanding advanced courses, internships, and enrichment opportunities in the coming years

Thank you for choosing First Choice Online Academy. Together, we are creating a flexible, engaging, and future-focused learning experience where every student can succeed.