Academics
Flexible Learning
At OHVA, we know every student learns differently, and families have busy, unique schedules. That’s why we offer Flex, an online learning program available to students who meet school eligibility criteria and are ready for a more independent learning model. Unlike the standard OHVA program, which has daily live classes, Flex is for students looking to optimize their learning time and schedule, whether that means restructuring your student’s day or planning around appointments, arts programs, or sports practices. OHVA offers Flex through an approved process, please contact your grade’s principal to discuss this option.
What is the Flex program?
Families in the Flex program maintain a daily schedule and pace that ensures the program’s structure and curriculum stay in place. Students can access coursework and class recordings anytime, and they’ll connect with a certified teacher throughout their learning journey to ensure they’re staying on track.
It’s important to remember that flexibility doesn’t mean anything goes. Students in this program are still expected to attend all required sessions, including any related to state compliance, testing, special services, or interventions. The flexibility is tied to when and how your student engages with their assigned learning, not in meeting their core academic responsibilities.
Why Families Choose Flex
There are many reasons to choose Flex to fit your family’s needs. Here are some of the main benefits students enjoy:
Optimize Your Learning Time
Flex lets your child complete schoolwork when it works best for your family’s routine. Morning person or night owl? Flex makes it easy to optimize your student’s learning time, while still having structured accountability and required support throughout the week and year.
Stay on Track With Support
Students in the Flex program will have the ability to attend optional live sessions, except for specific academic support related to special education, English Language Learner (ELL) services, dyslexia support, or other school-required sessions. They can also attend live virtual classes as needed and transition back to a more traditional online school model at any time.
High-Quality Education, Greater Flexibility
Flex students use the same rigorous curriculum as traditional OHVA students. They attend homeroom regularly, participate in assessments, and receive all required special services based on their learning needs. They also have access to a variety of other school programs. Flex ensures that learning and growth continue while giving families the freedom to manage their own routines.
Who thrives in Flex?
Flex is ideal for eligible students who are:
Motivated and independent learners
Able to participate in routine online coursework
Ready to set daily schedules and practice consistent time management
Consistently supported by a Learning Coach at home
Have met with their grade level principal and been approved for the Flex program
Students with IEPs, English Learner plans, or other required services will still have mandatory sessions that are part of their individual plans.
Flex Student Requirements
To be selected for the Flex program, students must meet the school’s eligibility requirements while enrolled at Ohio Virtual Academy.
Questions? You can contact us at:
- Grades K–2: Debbie Wotring, [email protected]
- Grades 3–5: Amy Borchers, [email protected]
- Middle school: Sam Lathan, [email protected]
- 9th Grade: Amy Muehlenbruch, [email protected]
- 10th Grade: Andrea Zawisza, [email protected]
- 11th Grade: Sharon Neisler, [email protected]
- 12th Grade: Andrew Smerekanich, [email protected]
At OHVA, the Flex program is conditional. Students who are not meeting academic and/or attendance expectations may be transitioned out of the program.
Flex Learning Coach Expectations
Learning Coaches play a key role in student success by:
- Establishing routines and monitoring learning time
- Supporting academic growth and encouraging problem-solving
- Teaching students to ask for help effectively from teachers
- Celebrating progress while allowing students to learn from productive struggle
Flex & Graduation
Flex students earn the same OHVA diploma as other students; transcripts do not indicate participation in Flex.
Graduation requirements are identical for all students, as set by the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flex students organize their own schedules with their Learning Coaches. Unlike standard OHVA, Flex doesn’t require direct instruction in live online classes — students attend limited live sessions, typically including homeroom and any required additional sessions for support or state compliance. Flex students do, however, have access to all recorded class connect sessions, so they can watch them as needed or when it fits their learning schedule. Flex students also participate in select mandatory sessions and set academic and personal growth goals. Additional details will be provided by grade-level principals during Flex conversations and determinations.
Yes! Flex students use the same online platform, curriculum, and grade-level courses as standard OHVA students. They also have access to social emotional learning and may participate in all clubs and social opportunities offered at OHVA and K12.
Students must choose one program. However, students participating in the Flex program will still be invited to all live class connect sessions. At any time, your student can attend live virtual classes as needed and transition back to a more traditional online school model.
No. Families often have one child in Flex and another in the standard program, depending on individual learning needs.
Students can transition back to a traditional, structured class schedule if Flex isn’t working for them. The family can request the change, or the school can initiate it. Students who don’t meet the requirements for staying in Flex may also be transitioned back to standard learning.