VAVO - About

About the Virtual Academy at Valley Oaks

VAVO is a supported Independent Study Program. Students choose to attend the VAVO for a variety of reasons and it is our goal to provide a rich and engaging course of study that meets the needs of all of our scholars. The roster of students enrolled at Valley Oaks represents grades 7 - 12. Our expectation is that each student coming to VAVO is serious about continuing their education and ultimately completing high school through PCS graduation requirements, or successful completion of the CHSPEE, HiSET or GED. VAVO offers an opportunity for our students to reach this goal in a uniquely personalized manner.

As a staff, we work hard to ensure that courses are appropriate to support our students and that all requirements for graduation and post high school education are met. To accomplish this, we expect each student to understand his/her academic responsibilities. These include consistent engagement, regular attendance in virtual meetings and making a commitment to complete work on schedule. Students are expected to be active and conscientious participants in their learning. Our small school size fosters close connections between teachers and students, and our goal is to help every student find success!

As of 2021, state law requires that 7th through 12th grade students have at least weekly live synchronous instruction with teachers. Additionally, 7th and 8th grade students are required to have daily live interaction with a teacher, so contact is required 5 days a week. These requirements can be met in a variety of ways including in person meetings with teachers and connecting via Google Meet.

Parent involvement is a critical component for student success at VAVO. Providing an environment that is conducive to daily studying is essential. We also invite all parents and guardians to become actively involved in the school community. There are numerous opportunities for parents to contribute to our school, including membership in our site council, helping us develop our Single Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA), and attendance at district committee meetings. Feel free to contact staff when you have questions or concerns related to your child. Working together, we believe that we can foster real success for all of our students. We look forward to a wonderful school year and getting to know each of you.

Students who do not live in the Petaluma City Schools area and wish to attend VAVO may do so. The first step in requesting an inter-district transfer is to begin with your district of residence. Your current district must sign the inter-district transfer form and forward to PCS. After completing the IDT and receiving notification of acceptance to PCS, please apply to VAVO. Students will be enrolled as quickly as possible as long as there is space available.

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