We asked a parent to reflect on her VLACS experience and share a tip that her family uses to stay organized and on track. Here is what she said!
Each morning, I put out a sticky note for each of my Elementary school children, listing what assignments they need to complete. These sticky notes are crucial to our success--without them, none of us would know where or what we were doing. My first grader loves checking items off her list and my fourth-grade son takes an incredible amount of pleasure in crumpling up his post-it note and throwing it away at the end of the day.
- Nancy Godfrey VLACS Elementary Parent
If online learning has been an adjustment for your child, our instructors' expertise could be a big help! Here's what they have to say about tackling any stressors your child might be encountering.
“Ask about pre-tests at the beginning of the modules. Consider using them as part of your review for the exam rather than doing them as your initial assignments at the beginning of new modules.” Mrs. Walker
“Use a calendar or chart. If you’re not already using a calendar or some way to manage your time, do so. Google calendar and iPhone calendars are great tools, as are paper calendars and charts. Visual reminders of what needs to be completed can be really motivating!” Mrs. Snaer
“Get a 1-subject notebook for each course and staple the pace chart to the cover. Write the dates you submit work under ‘actual due date’.” Mrs. Walker
“Have a separate workspace that is different from your relaxing space so you can physically experience the boundaries of when it’s time to work or play.” Mrs. Strong
“Feel free to contact your instructors via the “Need Help” tab during their open office hours or by email when you have any questions. Also, the Academic Help Desk is available if you need a quick answer, and your instructor is not available.” Mr. LeDrew
“Seek balance in your work and daily schedule. Try to break down tasks into manageable pieces and make sure you incorporate breaks into the schedule to minimize feelings of being overwhelmed.” Mrs. Foulks
Our 37-page ebook provides answers to some of the most commonly asked questions that parents have about online learning.
You'll get answers to questions such as:
What does it take to be a successful online learner?
How will my child develop social skills while enrolled in an online course?
Can my child attend a traditional school while taking an online course?
Our goal is to ensure that you are confident that your child will flourish throughout their online learning journey. We designed this eBook to inform you about the many ways your child's education can take form within the online scope. Under each question in our ebook, we also include a section entitled "The VLACS Difference" so that you can see the distinction of our program among others.
The internet has created a space to access any information imaginable right at our fingertips. While this information may be readily available, students are expected to only produce original work in an authentic manner.
What's our approach to academic integrity? We take a relationship-focused approach to academic integrity. In building trusting relationships that focus on mutual respect, students can get a better understanding of why academic integrity is so important. Academic infractions are teachable, and instructors utilize these discussions as an opportunity to educate, inform, and prohibit future offenses.
Instructors are available to support students if they have any questions regarding academic integrity. Their goal is to create a culture of integrity that celebrates authenticity, growth, and development.
Parents, would you like to connect with a VLACS student who is interested in exploring your career path?
We currently offer career-focused learning opportunities that empower students to interact with professionals and learn about their career options. As we continue to establish these connections, we are looking for professionals who would be willing to share their expertise with students. You could collaborate with students through live video conferences (Career Connections), or you could host a virtual/in-person job shadow or micro-internship.
If you would like to find out more about this opportunity, please fill out this form, and we will be in touch.
Thank you for your consideration!