Va. will implement online high school program in fall

The Virginia Department of Education plans to introduce a program in the fall that allows students to earn their high school degree from home. The pilot year will include 100 students and if it is successful, it might become a larger, permanent program. Student will utilize the Virtual Virginia online class program already in place, while their local school will provide resources like textbooks and technology when needed, at no cost. The students will also be able to participate in extracurricular activities at the local public school. Proponents of online education look for expansion of the program to all grades, whereas some school officials fear a strain on teachers and a diminished quality of coursework.