LAVA FAQ's

Question:  Will colleges recognize Lehighton Area Virtual Academy (LAVA)?

Answer:  All courses are aligned with the Pennsylvania Core Standards.  Each class through LAVA will be placed on the student’s transcript.  Students would continue to receive a GPA (grade point average) and class rank.  LAVA students are still eligible for honor roll, academic recognition and apply for scholarships specific to Lehighton students.

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Question:  If I enrolled in another cyber before I knew about LAVA can I withdraw and enroll in LAVA?

Answer:  Yes.  We can enroll any student that resides in the Lehighton Area School District area into our academy within 24-48 hours.  The downtime is minimal and the transition is smooth.  

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Question:  My child is an athlete.  Are the credits in line with the NCAA?

Answer:  Yes.  If your goal is for your child to participate in a Division I or II athletic program approved NCAA courses through LAVA will be available.

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Question:  Do we have to log on during a specific time?

Answer:  No.  LAVA is available for all students enrolled 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.  Our students can even log in on a snow day!  This allows students to work ahead, get caught up if behind, and meet their specific pacing agreements outlined in the courses.

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Question:  Will I have live lessons with my instructors?

Answer:  Students will be able to communicate with their teachers to set up individualized learning times when needed.

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Question:  If my child does not like online learning can they return to the traditional school building (brick)?

Answer:  Yes.  LAVA enables a smooth transition back into the traditional setting.  Our courses match up with the curriculum offered in school.

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Question:  My child is interested in attending Carbon Career and Technical Institute (CCTI).  Can they do both programs?

Answer:  Yes.  We have had many students complete both programs successfully each year.

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Question:  Can the schedule be flexible so my child can work?

Answer:  Yes.  Because LAVA is available 24/7 our students can be flexible on when they log in.  Our students can create a schedule to accommodate academics and work.  Lehighton’s Work Experience Program can even offer credits towards graduation.

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Question:  Can my child participate in sports, attend the prom, field trips, homecoming …?

Answer:  Yes.  Your child is a Lehighton Area School District student.  Everything available to our traditional school students are available to our LAVA students.

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Question:  Who monitors my child’s education to ensure they are making academic progress? 

Answer:  LAVA allows the district to interact on a more personal basis with the student.  Each student is assigned an advisor (Ms. June Potts) from the district that regularly and frequently monitors and assists students through email, phone and even home visits.  This allows the student and family to be a part of the local school community and receive local assistance and privileges.  Lehighton Area School District allows the students to come into the building to receive one on one tutoring and extra help and/or attention.  In addition online teachers are available for individualized tutoring sessions and do contact students when they see areas of struggle. 

In contrast cyber school teachers live somewhere in the state of PA and usually are not close to where the student lives. There is more of a disconnect between the student and teacher/school.

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Question:  Who are the instructors for the courses?

Answer:  A majority of our LAVA courses for the 2024-2025 school year will be instructed/monitored by each vendors teachers.  All teachers are Pennsylvania certified.  Electives may be taught by our Lehighton Area School District teachers.

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Question:  Are the textbooks and equipment provided?

Answer:  Yes.  The textbooks are embedded into the courses and the school district will be providing Google Chromebooks, router, and reimbursement of $30.00 towards your internet supplier.  However, a few courses may need additional supplies.  Families will be given an option to choose courses that accrue financial expense not covered by the district.