Kelso Virtual Academy (KVA) has been approved by Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) as a multi-district online school. This allows Kelso School District the ability to accept non-resident students. Washington state residents in grades K – 12 are now welcome to apply to the virtual school through the Choice process.
KVA, which had been available to secondary students in the Kelso School District for many years, expanded to K-12 in 2020-21 to support students and staff with the best options for their particular needs during the pandemic. Enrollment grew from 29 students to over 1,000 within the district.
“At KVA, we have really honed in on student success and redesigned coursework in a way that helped our students thrive,” said Cindy Sholtys-Cromwell, KVA Principal. In a year when so many students struggled with academic success due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, KVA saw the opposite trend; course completion rate went from 55% to 90% for secondary students. “Because KVA works so well for Kelso kids, we are excited to make our virtual academy available to any K-12 student in the state.”
While many virtual schools have a student to teacher ratio upwards of 50:1, KVA’s ratio is 28:1; which means more individualized attention for students. Another aspect that helps KVA students experience academic success is having high school on a trimester schedule. This allows high school students to earn 7.5 credits per year, versus 6 credits on a traditional semester schedule. Students can graduate early or take additional classes.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to provide what we know will have a positive impact for students and families throughout Washington as they consider their educational options this fall,” said Mary Beth Tack, Kelso School District Superintendent. “Cindy and the great team of KVA staff have been recognized regionally, statewide, and nationally for their demonstrated dedication to students and families, commitment to excellence, and passion for Alternative Learning Experiences (ALE).”
Enrollment in Kelso Virtual Academy for the 2021-22 school year is open now through August 27, 2021. Washington students can begin the application process with this packet.
Frequently asked questions about KVA are answered here. If you have additional questions, email them to kva@kelsosd.org.