SCSD Believes the most effective and impactful way to teach students is in-person learning. Learning is a social activity.  However, the pandemic has proven virtual learning to be beneficial for specific types of learners and learners who have unique circumstances because it provides flexibility that did not exist prior to the pandemic. Virtual instruction should be used to allow students to access to rigorous instruction and opportunities such as: 

• Work at their own pace, 

• Limit sensory overload 

• Limit disruptions during the class

• Have a condensed school day 

• Build the capacity for self-directed learning ( time management and self-motivation)

• Continue to participate in extracurricular activities

 Student Qualifications*:

 The virtual learning platform is only at Grade 10 for the 2022-23 school year and is expected to expand to both Grade 10 and 11 during the 2023-24 school year. 

• Students must not be chronically absent within one of the past two school years. Meaning they have not missed more than 10% of the school year excluding quarantine requirements.

• Students must have passed all appropriate courses / Regent Exams and be on track to graduate

• Students must have parent permission

 Students that are selected must understand:

• They must be passing all courses at the end of each marking period to remain enrolled in virtual instruction

• Their attendance must be at or above 90% for each marking period.

• They must agree to participate in their classes synchronously during the scheduled time period.

• The depth and breadth of elective course offerings will be limited. However, course offerings will include mandated courses towards earning 22 credits and electives that align with the students schedule.

 *Students who would like to be considered for the Virtual Academy will complete an application that will be reviewed by a Committee.  Not all applicants will be accepted for this program.  Students will need to reapply each year.

 Extracurricular Activities: 

Students who participate in virtual instruction will be able to participate in all Schenectady High School extracurricular activities. Our partnership with CDTA provides students with transportation to the high school. However, SHS will not be able to create new bus runs to accommodate virtual students that are above and beyond the established bus routes.