West Virginia Virtual Academy
Semester 1 Wrap Up
Greetings from our Head Of School
Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,
I hope this letter finds you all in good health and high spirits.
First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated students and their learning coaches for all the hard work and commitment during the past semester. Your determination to excel is truly inspiring.
I would also like to extend my gratitude to our exceptional faculty and staff for your unwavering commitment to providing quality education and creating a safe environment where students can flourish.
Looking ahead, we have some exciting initiatives planned for the second semester. We’ve introduced new courses and are expanding our extracurricular activities and events that will enrich the educational experience for our students. From clubs to field trips to community service initiatives, there is something for everyone to get involved in and make lasting memories.
Lastly, I would like to remind everyone of the importance of open communication and collaboration. We value your feedback and encourage you to reach out to us with any questions, concerns, or suggestions.
As we embark on this new semester, let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead and continue to strive for excellence. Thank you for your continued support and trust in our school. I wish you all a successful and fulfilling second semester.
Warm regards,
Doug Cipoletti
WVVA Head of School/Executive Director
Celebrating our Students
While WVVA celebrates all of our families, a special shout out to these students for their excellence in the classroom for November and December.
Learning Coaches of the Quarter
Be in the Know on the LC Community
Join the LC Community HERE and gain access to school information, face to face events, educational opportunities, and connection with other LC!
Please take a moment to complete our 2 questions survey about the LC Community.
The Office of Special Programs hosted a Virtual Transition Fair for students with exceptionalities on December 8, 2023, was a highly successful and informative event tailored specifically for students with exceptionalities. With an impressive turnout of 32 participants, the fair aimed to empower these students by providing crucial insights into various aspects of their transition into adulthood.
The event covered essential topics, including graduation requirements, Age-of-Majority considerations, career options, and available agency supports. Students had the opportunity to engage with experts and professionals who shared valuable information to help them navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to post-secondary life.
Through interactive sessions and presentations, participants gained a deeper understanding of the graduation process and requirements, ensuring they were well-equipped to meet academic milestones. The exploration of Age-of-Majority issues provided valuable insights into legal considerations that may impact individuals with exceptionalities as they reach adulthood.
One of the key highlights of the fair was the comprehensive exploration of career options. Students had the chance to learn about various vocational paths, job opportunities, and skill development programs, setting the stage for informed decision-making about their future careers. The event facilitated networking with professionals in different fields, offering valuable connections for potential mentorship and support.
Furthermore, the fair addressed the critical role of agency supports in the lives of students with exceptionalities. Attendees were introduced to available resources and assistance programs that could enhance their educational and vocational journeys. This information proved instrumental in empowering students to make well-informed decisions about their post-school lives.
WVVA to Host Vocabulary Bee
Get ready for an exhilarating event at WVVA! This spring, our secondary students are diving headfirst into the school's inaugural Vocabulary Bee. We believe that vocabulary development is not just a skill; it's a key pillar in the science of reading. The more our students immerse themselves in words and word parts, the more adept they become as voracious readers.
We urge you to join the thrill by supporting your student in their journey to conquer words! Imagine having a lively "Word of the Day" ritual at home to spice up the learning experience. For some of the most student-friendly definitions, check out Longman's Online Dictionary.
The buzz doesn't stop there! Dive into practice word lists, conveniently located in the Learning Coach Community under Resources. Let's make vocabulary-building an exhilarating adventure for our students!
Join WVVA for Story Hour
Embark on a literary adventure with WVVA's weekly pre-recorded story hour! Dive into the enchanting world of storytelling with your student, forging an unbreakable bond with the magic of literature. The treasure trove of recordings awaits you in the LC Community, ready to ignite your passion for reading!
Gear up for upcoming tales that will transport you to new realms: 🌟 "Llama Llama Red Pajama" 🎉 "WooHoo You're Doing Great" ➕ "Math Curse" 🥔 "Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato"
Become a star hero as a guest reader. Simply complete the survey, and we'll whisk you into the spotlight with more details.
For more information about Story Hour, reach out to Ms. Boso at sboso@westvaacademy.org. Don't miss out on the thrill of literary exploration – let the stories unfold! 📚✨
If you to be a reader for Story Hour, complete this SURVEY and we will reach out to you! We'd love to have you join us.
What's Happening in FBLA?
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) continues to be a growing student organization. FBLA is still accepting and registering new members. FBLA meets the first Friday, and third Friday of every month. If you are interested in joining, please reach out to Mrs. Rudd at hrudd@westvaacademy.org. FBLA members recently made holiday cards to send to the wonderful staff that makes up WVVA. FBLA students will get first dibs on a field trip happening soon to the State Capitol for CTE Day.
Earn a Microsoft Office Certification!
Microsoft certification prep is underway. Students at WVVA have an exciting opportunity to earn industry recognized certifications in Microsoft programs. If you have completed MS Office I with Mrs. Rudd, you may be a candidate for this process, or currently involved in it. We hope to have our first certified students by the end of January! If you are interested in earning a certification in a Microsoft program, such as Word, PowerPoint, or Excel, please reach out to Mrs. Rudd at hrudd@westvaacademy.org.
Local School Improvement Council
Exciting news! WVVA has recently introduced the Local School Improvement Council (LSIC), a dynamic assembly comprised of families, business stakeholders, staff, and students. This innovative initiative is designed to offer valuable support to the school administration, propelling them towards strategic goals and ensuring an unparalleled educational experience for our students.
In a compelling move, the LSIC has championed two impactful projects through a majority vote: (1) an ambitious staff recruiting and candidate sourcing endeavor, and (2) the implementation of an engaging Academic Letter program.
Mark your calendars! The LSIC convenes four times a year, and the next meeting is set for February 13 at 3:00, conducted via Zoom. To dive deeper into the LSIC or get involved, feel free to reach out to Salina Sherry, at ssherry@westvaacademy.org, or Cheryl Stahle at cstahle@westvaacademy.org.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this transformative journey!
SAT School Day is Coming to WV
Attention parents! All 11th graders at West Virginia Virtual Academy will be taking part in the mandatory SAT School Day initiative. This means they'll have the chance to participate in the SAT free of charge. The SAT isn’t just an assessment essential for College Admissions anymore. Every high school Junior in West Virginia will be participating. The testing will happen at various locations across the state between April 8 and April 26. This program is designed to make sure all students get a fair shot at showcasing their abilities. It's a flexible and accessible way to help your child through an important step in their educational journey. We can’t wait to see you there!
Exciting GSA News!
As we gear up for the general summative assessment in West Virginia, we want to share some important dates with you. The writing assessment will take place between March 4 and March 15, providing a specific focus on your child's written communication skills. Additionally, the other subject tests will be administered between April 8 and May 24, offering a comprehensive evaluation of your child's academic proficiency.
This year, we're pleased to let you know that WVVA will be providing both in-person and remote testing options, adding a layer of flexibility to accommodate your child's needs.
The general summative assessment evaluates your child's skills and knowledge in key subjects, helping teachers tailor their instruction to better meet individual needs. It provides valuable insights into areas where your child excels and areas that may require additional support. The results are used to guide instructional planning, ensuring a personalized and effective learning experience.
Rest assured, the assessment is crafted with fairness and accuracy in mind, offering a well-rounded perspective of your child's academic development. We encourage you to view it as a tool that supports your child's growth and helps us work together to provide the best possible education.
Golden Horseshoe Testing
Embark on an educational journey in West Virginia, where academic excellence is celebrated through the prestigious Golden Horseshoe Test and the innovative West Virginia Virtual Academy. The Golden Horseshoe Test, a time-honored tradition in West Virginia, stands as a symbol of scholastic achievement and historical knowledge. Introduced in 1931, this statewide competition challenges eighth-grade students to showcase their understanding of West Virginia's rich history, culture, and geography. Those who triumph in the rigorous examination are inducted into the esteemed Order of the Golden Horseshoe Society, an elite group of students recognized for their exceptional commitment to learning.
Mark your calendars for the Golden Horseshoe Test. On March 21, 2024, the University of Charleston will play host to our eager eighth-grade students. Subsequent dates include March 25, 2024, where the quest for the Golden Horseshoe continues in Huntington at Mountwest, in Elkins at the WV Wood Technical Center, and the Ohio County Library in Wheeling. The Falcon Center at Fairmont State University will host WVVA on March 26, 2024. Finally, on March 27, 2024, the fun arrives at West Virginia University at Parkersburg and Beckley at New River Technical College.
Across these locations, the Golden Horseshoe Test becomes a symbol of academic prowess, culminating in the recognition of exceptional students in the Order of the Golden Horseshoe Society. Keep an eye out for confirmation emails coming in February to confirm your date and location! Meanwhile, keep building those WV History skills using the quick quizzes at https://wvculture.org/quiz-app/
On the Road with WVVA
WVVA faculty members have actively organized face-to-face events to foster a stronger sense of community within our school. These events, seamlessly integrated into the LC Community's socialization calendar, provide engaging opportunities for connection. If you haven't explored the LC Community yet, we invite you to check it out!
We have more exciting events in the planning stages, so keep an eye out for updates on our calendar on the LCC Socialization page.
Zoology Zone
Students enjoyed learning about exotic animals during this interactive experience at the Zoology Zone.
Cookie Exchange
Students and their families enjoyed a cookie exchange prior to the holidays.
Join Us for Upcoming Field Trips & Speakers
Learn more about these events on the LC Community!
Summer Experiences for Secondary Students
WVVA students have the opportunity to apply for summer enrichment experiences. Students are encouraged to contact the WVVA point of contact for each program to learn more and to apply. There are strict deadlines with each program. There is no charge to apply or participate in these programs if selected.
HOBY
To apply or for additional information, contact Ms. Stahle (cstahle@westvaacademy.org)
Governor's Schools
To learn more or for a WVVA application, contact Mrs. Drobish (ndrobish@westvaacademy.org)
Boys and Girls State
For a WVVA application, contact Mrs. Canterbury-Penn (dcanterbury-penn@westvaacademy.org)
REMINDER: Don’t forget to turn in any attendance excuses to the office at wvvaattendance@westvaacademy.org or call the office at 304-807-9370 option 3. You can also have the excusing office at which you attended fax the excuse to 304-220-3104.
If you have any questions about your student’s attendance, please contact the office at the email address or phone number above. We will be happy to help you reconcile any attendance concerns.
West Virginia Virtual Academy
Main Office: 3508 Staunton Ave., Charleston WV 25304
Main Phone: 304-807-9370
Absence Notes: wvvaattendance@westvaacademy.org
Office Email: wvvaoffice@westvaacademy.org