Alternative Education
Online Learning Labs
Grades 9-12

What is an online learning laboratory?
Currently, Virginia Beach City Public Schools offers students in grades 9-12 the opportunity to attend online learning laboratories in two alternative centers, Open Campus and Virginia Beach Central Academy. Students are supported by a certified teacher/facilitator as well as a lab atmosphere with few distractions. Online curriculum provides a graded, self-paced instructional program for students to study independently to receive credit for certain academic courses. Successful online learning students are self-motivated and attentive, complete all assignments and exams, and maintain regular attendance. A tutorial program ensures students have the fundamental reading, grammar, and math skills required by the courses. Where pretests identify a need, students participate in focused tutorial lessons. After successful completion of any tutorials indicated (90% accuracy is required.), students are enrolled in specific courses.

How does a student enter the program?
A student must be referred to participate in the online learning program. The principal in the student’s home school may recommend this placement, or the Office of Student Leadership may request a placement.

What curriculum and services are offered?
Students primarily study in an independent mode, but they are required to meet with their teacher on a regular basis to review and discuss assignments. A certified teacher is provided at all times while the lab is in operation. All student submissions of course work must attain a passing score of 80 or above. A student must spend at least six (6) hours per week for at least 45 days with a minimum of 140 hours or more spent online per course credit. Students may enter and exit the program without regard to the traditional academic year, but they sign a contract indicating they understand the attendance and academic requirements of the program. The following courses are typically offered online: English 9, 10, 11, 12, Algebra I, geometry, Algebra II, World History 1 and 11, art history, Earth science, biology, U.S. history, Virginia and U. S. government. Contact the online learning lab facilitator at Open Campus for the availability of other courses.

Is transportation provided to online learning labs?
Transportation is solely the responsibility of the students and their parent/guardian,

Are special education students accepted?
Special education students may participate in online learning only after a review of their Individual Education Program indicates this is a proper placement for them

Whom can I contact for additional information about Online Learning Laboratories?

Alternative center locations:
Open Campus		Virginia Beach Central Academy
Interim Principal: Joshua Darden		Principal: Michael Bolton
E-mail: joshua.darden@vbschools.com		E-mail: michael.bolton@vbschools.com
273 N. Witchduck Road		273 N. Witchduck Rd
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462		Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Telephone: 757.473.5091		Telephone: 757.473.5058
Fax: 757.519.9960		Fax: 757.473.5111
Office Hours:	8:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Monday -Thursday	Office Hours: 7:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Mon. - Fri.
	8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Friday