Online summer school to click with state's high schoolers

Kentucky Virtual High School to offer summer term

FRANKFORT, KY (May 23, 2000) -

Kentucky high school students can register now through June 13 for an online summer school program taught by certified Kentucky teachers. Fifteen courses in eight subjects will be offered by the Kentucky Virtual High School in its first summer session which begins June 12 and ends Aug.20, 2000.

The online courses include health, oceanography, English literature, English as a second language, chemistry, study skills, Spanish and geometry.

Linda Pittenger, director of the KVHS, said the online summer school session appeals to a wide range of students.

"Online summer school is an excellent opportunity for students who work, for those who want to get ahead or makeup missed credits, and students who want to take an enrichment class," explained Pittenger.

The benefit of online summer school over traditional summer school is that a student can study anytime of day from anywhere they can get internet access, and also proceed through the course at their own pace. This means that students can take courses without giving up a summer job or a vacation.

Pittenger said that the online courses are high in quality and will be taught by exceptional Kentucky teachers who have received special training to teach online.

For instance, KVHS faculty teaching in the current spring term average 16 years' teaching experience, all have master's degrees, seven hold Rank One certification and two have completed doctorate work, she said.

"Students need to realize that online courses are every bit as challenging as courses taught in a traditional classroom," cautioned Pittenger. "They should expect plenty of traditional assignments, class discussions, quizzes, tests and lots of interaction with the teacher and other students by e-mail."

Students interested in taking a KVHS course must first consult with their school counselors for permission and to learn whether their high school will award credit for the online class. The State Board of Education has ruled that high schools may award credit for online classes offered by KVHS.

KVHS partners with local districts to provide students with access to courses that may not be taught in their own high school, or may not be taught at a time when the student is available. The partnership between KVHS and the local schools benefits the students academically. It also allows the schools to expand the choices they offer.

"We also find that many parents want their children to have the experience of taking an online course before they get to college or go into the world of work," added Pittenger.

To view a list of courses and course descriptions for the KVHS summer session, click on "Course Schedule" at the KVHS web site, www.kvhs.org. The site also provides general information, answers to frequently asked questions and a demonstration course to help give students a taste of what online learning is all about.

The Kentucky Virtual High School was officially launched in January. It is one of only two statewide virtual high schools in the nation. As well as delivering high school courses, the online facilities of the virtual high school are being used to provide training and support to teachers.

For more information on the Kentucky Virtual High School, visit the web site at www.kvhs.org or call at 502-564-2020.

Contact:
Sue Patrick, KYVU
(502) 573-1555
sue.patrick@kyvu.org

Contact Us/Help | Privacy Policy  | Security Policy

                   

Questions? Comments? Please send feedback to the KYVC Call Center
or call toll-free 1-877-740-4357