HOW IT WORKS
Middle School
Who can attend?
The Ohio Virtual Academy (OHVA) middle school program serves students in grades 6–8 who reside in the state of Ohio.
What are the costs?
Because OHVA is part of the public school system, it's tuition-free. Enrolled families receive the Stride K12 curriculum, as well as a loaner computer, printer, and internet stipend.
What is my role as a parent?
Middle school is a time when students become more independent, taking on more responsibility and ownership for their learning and working more directly with their teachers. But parent involvement is still critical to student success. As a parent, you (or another responsible adult you choose) serve as your child's Learning Coach.
While teachers set the pace of instruction, the Learning Coach helps their student stay on track. Parent/Learning Coach involvement is essential and averages anywhere from 5 to 15 hours a week. The initial 4–8 weeks can be intensive as your family settles into a routine.
Working with Your Teacher
Teachers provide individual and small group assistance via online synchronous sessions called "Class Connects." Students are expected to attend all required Class Connects and meet with their teacher to receive course assistance, tutoring, and instruction. Class Connects vary by grade level and are scheduled by your teacher.
Expectations for Completing Schoolwork
In middle school, student learning changes to a semester-based approach where students are required to earn a passing grade on their assignments and online lessons. Due dates are assigned to lessons to encourage consistent, steady progress for academic success.
While online lessons can usually be completed at any time of day, students are required to attend teacher-led, direct-instruction, online synchronous Class Connect sessions. During Class Connects, students receive online instruction from teachers and have opportunities to interact virtually with classmates.
Attending Class Connects and completing coursework according to the assigned pacing schedule, will helpset up your student for success.
State Testing
Thank you to all our families for your commitment to getting your child to mandatory state testing!
Spring state testing is scheduled to take place in April for Middle School students. View the Family Testing Calendar for grades 3-8. Contact your advocate or classroom teacher for more information about testing. You can also refer to OHVA Testing FAQ's and Information [PDF] which includes test site locations.
Transitioning to High School
The 8th–grade transition from middle school to high school is an important and exciting time both for students and parents. OHVA counselors, advisors, and staff provide a variety of sessions and trainings to make sure that transition is smooth. For the latest info, visit Middle School Guidance information.
