Excellence: it takes everyone!
VIRTUAL LEARNING ACADEMY
A full-time online learning option for 9th-12th grades
Gilroy Unified offers the Virtual Learning Academy (VLA), an additional educational option for families and students who are interested in independent learning opportunities. VLA is a full-time, independent, online-learning option for Gilroy Unified students in grades 9-12.
To apply, complete this application and a member of the VLA team will contact you.
Commitment: Semester-long commitment offers students and families a flexible learning schedule during the school year.
Support: Students will be supported by a GUSD teachers with core subject area content.
Specialized programs are not available.
At home: Caregivers will be the learning coaches for their children as they work through online course materials.
Partnership: GUSD has partnered with Edmentum, a fully-accredited virtual curriculum provider.
Expectations: Daily attendance is mandatory and recorded by teachers. A-F grades are assigned.
You Should Know
All requests to attend VLA are evaluated and approved or denied by the District consistent with applicable state and federal laws.
Requests to return to a Gilroy Unified school or to join VLA during the year will be considered based upon space availability.
Contact
Kanani Pratt
Program Administrator
kanani.pratt
@gilroyunified.org
What to expect
A student enrolled in VLA will:
- Be able to access courses 24/7, from any computer connected to the internet. Many courses are optimized for mobile devices, including tablets.
- Be expected to attend school every day. Daily attendance is mandatory and recorded by teachers.
- Earn A-F grades.
- Work closely with supportive, GUSD teachers who are committed to building strong relationships with both students and caregivers.
- Have access to curriculum, including core courses, electives, career and technical education, and advanced courses.
- Participate in engaging activities designed to meet the needs of all learners, including videos, audio content, and problem-based interactive lessons.
- Stay on track with pacing and progress-monitoring tools.
- Remain part of the school community, including participation in activities and athletics open to any GUSD student, if applicable.
Daily Learning
| ELA | 90-120 minutes* |
| Math | 45-60 minutes* |
| Social Studies | 30 minutes* |
| Science | 30 minutes* |
| Elective/ Enrichment | 30-60 minutes* |
Plus teacher instructional support daily
* approximation of time each day
Caregivers are critical in their child's educational success in GUSD's VLA.
The time commitment varies, but caregiver support is essential
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Virtual Learning Academy (VLA)?
- Are specialized programs available in VLA (GECA, MMHS, dual immersion, agriculture, Computer Science Academy, Biomedical Academy, music, etc.)?
- Is attendance important?
- What if my student has an IEP or 504?
- Is the program taught by GUSD teachers?
- Will students receive grades in this program?
- Will high school classes in VLA meet college entrance requirements?
- Can a student return to their attendance area school during the year? Can students transfer into the VLA during the school year?
What is the Virtual Learning Academy (VLA)?
Are specialized programs available in VLA (GECA, MMHS, dual immersion, agriculture, Computer Science Academy, Biomedical Academy, music, etc.)?
Is attendance important?
What if my student has an IEP or 504?
Is the program taught by GUSD teachers?
Will students receive grades in this program?
Will high school classes in VLA meet college entrance requirements?
Can a student return to their attendance area school during the year? Can students transfer into the VLA during the school year?
The district provides all applicants equal opportunities without regard to sex, ethnic group identification, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religious creed, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition or pregnancy, veteran status, gender or actual or perceived sexual orientation.