Distance Learning

What is NCVPS?

North Carolina Virtual Public School (NCVPS) is an online school community that will serve K-12 public school students throughout the state of North Carolina.

Beginning in June of 2007, NCVPS began to provide courses for students who want access to learning opportunities in addition to the courses currently offered at their school.

Because they are taught online, courses may be completed at school, at home or other settings where a computer and Internet connection that meet the requirements are located. The first offerings are aimed primarily at high school students.

Middle school students will be allowed to take high school courses. However, only mathematics and foreign language credits will transfer up to the high school.

NCVPS will offer courses in every scholastic category. All NCVPS courses will meet the curriculum standards of the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. In addition, all courses meet recognized quality assurance standards for e-learning courses. Students are taught by North Carolina certified teachers and the grades earned will transfer to their local school and become a part of their academic record. NCVPS courses are offered free of charge to public school students.

For more information visit the official NCVPS website: NCVPS Home Page

Online Learning for the Rutherford Opportunity Center

The Online Course Experience

NCVPS uses an online environment to provide increased educational opportunities to public school students across the state. Courses are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Students use web-based tools, such as discussion boards, email, file exchange, collaboration groups, and online testing. Student-centered learning communities are established to promote student engagement and active learning. Students use tools such as Blackboard, text-based chat, Net Tutor, and Voice over IP telephone to allow for real-time communication with the online teacher.

NCVPS supports a wide array of instructional materials, online resources, and communication tools to foster 21st Century learning skills. Instructional resources include interaction with outside experts, simulations and case studies,

debate, and the use of technology for student products. Alternate assessment practices may be utilized.

NCVPS Courses May Accommodate Students

Wanting to take courses not available locally
Wanting to take courses whose sections at the local school are already full
Who already have a full load of classes but wish to take an additional course
Who are homebound or hospital-bound
Whose special circumstances cannot be addressed locally
Who want to graduate from school ahead of schedule
Who are in need of remediation
Who need to recover credit in a course