The last few years have certainly highlighted the fact that we made a lot of assumptions about how our day-to-day routines had to be. We once assumed that most jobs needed to be done in an office – until work from home became the norm in March of 2020. Many of us also assumed that there were just two options for K through 12 students – go to a brick-and-mortar school (either public or private) or be homeschooled.
The fact is that there were actually a number of employees utilizing the WFH model even before 2020 even though many of us may not have been aware of it. And were online schools around long before all schools in Wisconsin went virtual in 2020.
eAchieve is one such school and it has been around since 2004, so twenty years! It operates as an independent, tuition-free, virtual, public charter school out of Waukesha, Wisconsin. I realize that is a mouthful, so let’s break it down a little. eAchieve is an actual public school, just like the one in your town, only it exists online instead of down the street. It is funded by the taxes we all pay, just like every other public school.
What is a Charter school?
A charter school is like a regular public school except it has the freedom to operate differently than a traditional public school. The school draws up an agreement (or charter) that clearly states what standards will be upheld by the school and its attendees. The charter gives flexibility to certain aspects such as attendance, discipline, staffing ratios or academic focus. Most of these are dictated by the State Department of Education. When a parent enrolls their student in a Charter School, they are made aware of the policies and agree to them.
How does virtual school work? Is it like watching TV?
At eAchieve Academy, students learn from real live teachers. Instructional sessions typically happen once a week with support and enrichment opportunities scheduled in between those classes. If a student has a conflict, they can choose to watch a record of the instruction.
What grade levels can attend?
eAchieve Academy has every level from Kindergarten through grade 12.
Can eAchieve offer all the things a “regular” school can?
Absolutely! The school is accredited and offers Advanced Placement classes, honors classes and even special education services including IEPs and 504 plans. High school students receive a diploma and qualify to attend college, if that is their path. All of the teachers are Wisconsin-certified and offer support and personalization when needed. School counselors are also available if needed.
Who should attend a virtual school?
Well, the short answer is – anyone who wants to!! Anyone can be successful at a virtual school, if that is what they are looking for. The flexibility it offers certainly can have an added appeal to some students more than others. Virtual school can be especially app
ealing to families who travel, students who are pursuing interests or training that conflict with traditional school, or those who find attending physical school challenging because of health issues. eAchieve strives to be a welcoming place that eliminates all barriers or inequities.
Will I need to purchase a laptop for my student?
All needed technology is provided by eAchieve Academy.
I’m worried my child will feel isolated.
While the school is virtual, there are still many opportunities for students to socialize with their schoolmates. In addition to communicating with each other in “class”, the school offers field trips, in-person get-togethers and gatherings, and even formal dances.
This sounds amazing! But I’m concerned I can’t afford it for my student.
Because this is a public school, it is open to any student in Wisconsin for no charge. As stated previously, even the needed technology is provided at no cost.
How do I enroll my child at eAchieve Academy?
Because the school is part of the Waukesha School District, you will need to apply through Alternative Open Enrollment. This opened July 1st and is currently accepting applications. For a step by step walk-through of the process, check out the eAchieve website.
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