CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The Kanawha County Board of Education passed a policy proposal on first reading Monday that would start a virtual school pilot program for high school students.
The policy would create a pilot program for 30 students in January 2018 and would allow them to take some courses online without even being at the school building. Depending on the success of the pilot program, the program could be opened to all full-time students in the school system for the 2018-2019 school year.
Kanawha County Schools executive director for virtual school Valery Harper said the program allows students flexibility to complete coursework, as they can work on their schedule rather than sitting in a classroom.
“Some families do travel during the school year, so it gives them the option of which they can take their courses online and still continue to work toward graduation,” she said.
Harper added she understands the importance of flexibility, referencing her coursework as she works toward earning her doctorate from Marshall University.
“If you look at any other college campus today, there are a lot of college courses that people are taking,” she said. “Even if you look at our businesses and business industry, there are now opportunities for people to work virtually from home.”
The public has 30 days to comment on the proposal before it is voted on the board again. The board’s next two meetings are scheduled for Nov. 16 and Dec. 4.