District hosts River Valley Virtual Academy Open House

Nearly two dozen parents, students, and community members were in attendance for the River Valley Virtual Academy (RVVA) Open House on March 16. Held at the VBSD Administration Building, the event gave local families the opportunity to hear first-hand from District leaders about the new charter school and the benefits of virtual learning.

VBSD Superintendent Dr. Harold Jeffcoat, RVVA Coordinator Jennifer Feeny, and District Curriculum Director Nancy Robbins each shared about various elements of the program and took questions from guests. Many parents inquired about the self-paced format and how students' progress would be measured. Administrators stressed that although it will be self-paced, virtual academy students and their families will receive extensive District support from on-site staff through engaging learning opportunities. Students will have access to weekly tutoring sessions from VBSD teachers. Parents will also be able to meet face-to-face with staff to discuss their child’s upcoming assignments and overall progress

The Van Buren School District was the first in the state authorized to offer virtual learning for all grades, K-12. RVVA, which has a capacity for 325 students, will officially open in August 2017. It will be housed at VBSD's Freshman Academy. 

Two RVVA information sessions will be held in the coming weeks. The first will be April 14 at Northridge Middle School, located at 120 Northridge Drive. It will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The second session will be held April 18 at the VBSD Administration Building, located at 2221 Pointer Trail East. It will last from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 

Enrollment is now open for River Valley Virtual Academy and will remain open through the summer. Families living outside of the Van Buren School District must apply under the School Choice act. School Choice applications are due May 1.

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