Frequently Asked Questions

Each student starts on his/her specified day. Assignments are based on a weekly pace chart that dictates how many assignments students will complete each week. Once an assignment is completed, the student submits it and the teacher grades it, providing specific feedback. The feedback will provide guidance to corrections for the student to re-submit the submission for increased learning and improved grade.

Yes, you must have access to a computer and internet on a daily basis.

Internet access is required in order to complete the work. Students must log into the virtual system, which requires internet access.

Polk Virtual Education programs follow the Polk County Public Schools calendar.

Virtual teachers get to know their students on an individual basis. They learn individual student learning habits and can usually tell who is calling by the sound of a student’s voice. Teachers also complete discussion-based assessments with students where they are able to discuss various elements of lessons and possibly student interests. Virtual teachers and students get to know each other well throughout the school year.

No. As an accredited school, PVS offers a flexible alternative for students. It is not an easier option than traditional accredited schools. All courses are written at or above grade level and require an average of one to two hours of focused study on a daily basis to complete one course within the traditional semester time frame. Our courses engage students in real-life projects, requiring the use of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to apply the knowledge they have acquired.

PVS offers a true distance learning experience that does not require seat time in a traditional classroom. Periodically, standardized testing and academic interventions require students to attend face-to-face activities. Teachers may exercise the option of having students take face-to-face proctored assignments and exams to ensure fidelity.

Students are expected to actively participate in all courses on a weekly basis in order to maintain educational integrity. Students are considered truant (absent) if there is no participation in the online courses for more than one week without prior approval and will be reported as absent to the proper administration.

A successful online learner is a motivated self-starter and is committed to the success of his or her education. While PVS offers world-class educational opportunities, there is a high degree of accountability placed upon the student.  PVS is not an alternative school or dropout prevention program.

There is no difference in the curriculum between PVS and traditional schools. All courses are approved by the Department of Education. There is a significant difference in the flexibility offered to all PVS students in the way they can earn their courses/ credits online.

Both programs utilize the same online curriculum and platform (FLVS). PVS courses are taught by local PCPS teachers. Additionally, our program combines online instruction and face-to-face support at our campus in Lakeland.

Yes.  Along with all Polk County Public Schools, PVS is fully accredited by COGNIA formerly AdvancED.

Polk County Virtual School is also registered with the Florida State Department of Education and a part of the Polk County Public School system. Our accredited online high school diploma and all credits earned at PVS are accepted by other K-12 schools, colleges, universities, the military, and employers.

PVS is a public school serving grades K-12. If you meet PVS admission requirements and have determined that online learning is suitable for your needs, you are encouraged to apply for enrollment. PVS thrives on diversity and feels our diverse student body is what sets us apart from other traditional schools. We offer a well-rounded learning experience designed to prepare students for a successful future.

Yes. Polk County Virtual School has a solid reputation within the academic community. PVS offers a standard high school diploma that meets state and school board requirements. Our graduates seamlessly move on to post-secondary education, employment, or enlist in the military. PVS graduates attend major colleges and universities throughout the country.

Yes. As a parent, you will likely receive more updates and information about your student’s progress than ever before. We strongly feel that a parent’s involvement in a child’s education is the key to success. Our teachers are in frequent communication with parents.  You can always see how your child is performing by logging into your VSA parent account.

Click here to view a list of the computer system requirements.

Student work is based on a weekly pace chart. Students may have anywhere from 2-5 assignments per week, per class.

Lessons are in text version. Students read the required lessons and complete the specific assignments. The teacher is available via phone, email, and computer via live lessons to help answer any questions students may have. Teachers may provide recorded tutorials or links to live lessons in which the teacher is teaching and is available to help the student. Additional assistance may be found on our “Course Assistance” page.

Student receives required passwords from the instructor after he/she completes the discussion-based assessment and demonstrates they are ready for the exam.

Work is typically created in some type of word processing program such as MS Word or Open Office. It is then attached to the assessment that is to be submitted. There are also automated assignments that students will complete within the course. Those are typically a combination of multiple choice, short answer, matching, and short essay questions.

Your teachers for each class will grade your work.

All online courses and programs are taught by highly qualified Polk County Public School instructors that meet Florida Department of Education certification requirements. You can be sure that quality in education is our highest priority.

Classes range from a few students to many. The number of students in a class does not affect individual students in any way.

You can call your teachers whenever you have questions, need to take a discussion-based assessment, or if you are due for a monthly call. It is not necessary to talk to your teachers every day unless you need to.

Students can check grades any time by logging into the virtual system. All work is typically graded within 48 hours of submission. There are exceptions such as weekends and holidays. Students can also see which work has or has not been submitted and graded.

You can call your teacher during regular office hours or you can send an email any time. All phone calls and emails will be returned within 24 hours with exception of weekends and holidays.

Students only have to complete the required work each week. When they finish that work, they can work on other classes or work to get ahead. The virtual school system allows for a lot of flexibility.

Students are assigned an instructor for each course. Instructors are available daily M-F via phone or email. Teachers also have online office hours throughout the week.