About Our School
At MGLVA, we’re committed to uncovering and nurturing the unique potential in every student. Our proactive, inclusive, and technology-driven approach to education fosters critical thinking while emphasizing trust, safety, and personal growth. Since opening in 2013, we’ve expanded to serve students from K Prep through Early Middle College, building a school culture grounded in strong values. By partnering closely with families, we ensure every child has the resources and support to excel academically, socially, and emotionally.

Why choose MGLVA?
Personalized Learning for Everyone
- Tuition-Free: All materials are provided at no cost.
- Inclusive Environment: Accessible to all students, regardless of learning style, level, or location.
- Supportive Staff: Our dedicated team supports your child every step of the way.
- Flex Program: We offer greater independence and flexibility for students in good academic standing.
- Loaner computers and appropiate materials are provided at no cost.
Experienced and Credentialed Teachers
- Our fully state-certified teachers are readily available to provide guidance and support whenever students need it.
- MGLVA teachers are trained to deliver engaging, interactive lessons using innovative online technologies.
- Students attend live, regularly scheduled classes led by MGLVA teachers.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our curriculum makes learning fun with interactive games, videos, and hands-on activities that keep students engaged and supported. We offer:
- Core subjects aligned to Michigan standards
- World Languages
- Honors courses
- AP® courses
Special Education Services
We support students with diverse learning needs with:
- 504 plans
- IEPs
- English Learners
Support for At-Risk Students
- Credit recovery courses help students recover credits quickly.
- Tutoring opportunities
Career and College Readiness
- Dual credit opportunities with local community colleges, colleges, and universities.
- Internships and apprenticeships that provide real-world experience through local partnerships.
- CTE Programs: Explore high-demand careers starting in grade 8 and earn certifications starting in grade 9.
- Early Middle College opportunity beginning in grade 11.
K Prep
- Our K Prep program is a structured yet flexible learning program designed to prepare children aged 4 to 5 for kindergarten.
- Students explore colors, shapes, numbers, letters, and social skills through fun, hands-on learning activities.
Socialization and Clubs
- Virtual Socialization: Students can connect with peers by playing virtual games and more in our online hang-out zone, which teachers monitor.
- In-Person Socialization: Students have opportunities to attend gatherings throughout the state, field trips, prom, graduation, and more.
Our Mission
The Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy is dedicated to providing individualized education plans for every MGLVA student. Rooted in proven best practices, our mission is to equip students with the skills, knowledge, habits of mind, and democratic values needed to achieve their personal goals and become engaged, productive citizens of Michigan.
Delivered both online and offline, our program prioritizes public school accountability, teacher expertise, and meaningful parent involvement at the core of student success. MGLVA strives to be a model for other public schools, especially in areas such as:
- Creating Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs) to foster parental engagement.
- Supporting mastery of standards.
- Implementing web-based and in-person professional development.
- Developing a detailed instructional model to measure student achievement.
- Providing tiered interventions to support struggling learners.
MGLVA is committed to data-driven instruction, responsive governance, accountability, and transparency across all aspects of school operations.
Our Vision
Our vision is for the Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy to be a true school of excellence—a high-performing institution that produces exemplary levels of student achievement. We aim to equip every student with the foundation they need to graduate and prepare them for any postsecondary path they choose to pursue.
Our Core Values
Collaboration reaches new heights when a team and its partners share a common goal. Working together toward that goal strengthens relationships and enhances teamwork, with each person playing a vital role in achieving success.
MGLVA is committed to being a school of excellence, guiding every member of our community toward success. Like a lighthouse guiding ships safely to shore, MGLVA shines as a beacon of light to illuminate the path ahead. Even when challenges arise, we are here to provide support and guidance.
The word “BEACON” represents our core values:
B = Bravery
E = Ethics
A = Ambition
C = Compassion
O = Openness
N = Nobility

At Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy, we believe kindness is a key part of creating a safe learning environment. Join other students and families across the nation in spreading kindness every day. To learn more about our Be Kind 365 campaign, be sure to follow, like, and subscribe to our social media channels.