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 Stride K12-provided books and materials.* Washington-certified teachers provide instruction in virtual sessions called "Class Connects."
What to Expect
Time Commitment
Curriculum
WAVA Programs
WAVA Programs
Elementary
School
Middle
School
High
School
Choice of Standard or FLEX Program
Families can choose the standard WAVA program or the new FLEX Program. The standard program is best for students who value time with their peers and require live instructional time with teachers. The FLEX Program is well-suited for independent learners with engaged Learning Coaches.
What's my role as a parent?
You'll play an active and important role as your child's Learning Coach. 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 are unable to fill this role, you can choose a family member, friend, or another trusted adult to be the Learning Coach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to attend Washington Virtual Academies (WAVA)?
Any student in grades K–12 who resides in the state of Washington is eligible for enrollment.
Can I enroll my child in both WAVA and another school?
Yes, WAVA accepts dual enrollment through their "shared attendance agreement" with resident school districts; however, students are not permitted to take the same subject/course in both WAVA and another school district simultaneously. If parents/guardians would like to maintain their homeschool status, an Intent to Homeschool form must be filed with their resident district and WAVA for courses not taken as part of our program.
How many of my children can I enroll in WAVA?
Because WAVA provides the lesson plans and materials needed for grades K–12, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program. We currently have families with as many as five children in the program being guided by one teaching adult in conjunction with the support of WAVA teachers.
What does it cost to attend WAVA?
WAVA is a public school, so there is no tuition. We provide state-certified teachers and instructional materials. Students and families will be responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). In addition, families are required to provide their own computers and internet access to participate in the program.
What is the attendance policy?
WAVA works with families to achieve a positive attendance record that meets the required 180 instructional days.
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 grades K–2 spend about 30–40 percent of their time on the computer, while students in grades 3–5 spend about 50–60 percent of their time online. Screen time increases in middle school, and by high school, most of the school day is online.
How do students interact socially?
Throughout the year, students are invited to participate in school outings, field trips (e.g., to historical sites, museums, zoos), picnics, and other social events. We expect local clusters of students and parents to get together on a regular basis in their areas. We also are exploring new ways to interact socially using the powerful reach of the internet. The online Family Directory provides a way for families to network with families in their region of the state. With online discussions and forums, new types of communities can be formed that are based not on geography and place but on shared interests.
Socialization