How It Works

Curious How Online Learning Works?

With online learning, your child can learn at home, or wherever there’s an internet connection, while enjoying the benefits and support of a school program. They’ll complete a mix of online lessons and offline activities, using K12-provided books and materials.* State-certified teachers provide instruction in virtual sessions called “Class Connects.”

Our Programs

Michigan Virtual Academy (MGLVA) uses quality curriculum from K12 designed to let students find the learning style that works best for them, allowing them to find their own path to success. Each online classroom offers engaging and relevant lessons that build on your child’s interests and abilities. Plus, high school students can prepare for life after graduation with our career and college prep program.

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

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MIDDLE SCHOOL

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HIGH SCHOOL

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CAREER AND COLLEGE PREP

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What’s my role as a parent?

As Learning Coach, you’ll be able to take an active and vital role in your child’s education. Plan to:

  • Provide academic support, motivation, and guidance throughout the school year
  • Ensure your child is on track with assignments and coursework
  • Communicate with teachers
  • Report daily attendance

If you or your child’s legal guardian cannot fill this role, you may choose a family member, friend, or another trusted adult to serve as Learning Coach.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to attend Michigan Virtual Academy (MGLVA)?

Any K-12 student who resides in Michigan is eligible for full-time enrollment. Kindergarteners must be five years old before September 1 of the current year to be eligible for the program.

How many of my children can I enroll in MGLVA?

Because MGLVA provides the lesson plans and materials needed for K-12 grade leves, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program.

What does it cost to attend MGLVA?

MGLVA is a public school, so there is no tuition. We provide Michigan-certified teachers and instructional materials. Students and families will be responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). Our enrollment consultants can help address your technological and computer questions and needs.

What is the attendance policy?

As Michigan public school students, all MGLVA students must comply with the state-required 180 instructional Attendance responsibilities are as follows:

  • A parent or Learning Coach must log attendance daily in the Online School (OLS).
  • Schedules may be blocked or flexible. However, attendance in each course needs to be logged each week.
  • Extended family travel, except during normal school vacation periods, requires written notification and vacation contract approval by the Head of School or designee. This should be completed at least one week prior to the extended absence.
  • All families must attend a Parent Orientation and the new students will attend the “Introduction to Online Learning” course via the OLS.
  • Families must maintain regular communication with MGLVA teachers.
  • Students and parents/Learning Coaches must check their email and phone messages daily.
  • Students must attend all required live Class Connect sessions for instruction as directed by their teachers.

Can our family take a vacation during the school year?

The school calendar includes school holidays or vacation time. Whenever possible, family vacations should align with school vacation days. Parents are encouraged to contact their student’s teacher if they plan a vacation that does not coordinate with the school calendar. 

How much time will my child spend online?

In the younger grades, many of the online lessons include offline work. Students in K-2 grades spend about 30–40% of their time on the computer, while students in grades 3–5 spend about 50–60% online. Screen time increases in middle school, and by high school, most of the school day is online.

How do students interact socially?

Students spend time with classmates online and through school outings, field trips, and other activities. Local clusters of students and parents often get together in their area to study together, socialize, and have fun. In addition to school-based clubs, K12 online national clubs help connect students with like interests and passions.

*Course materials vary by course and school.