What is a virtual school?
Virtual schools like PrepNet Virtual Academy bring the in-person classroom experience fully-online. Our school is an excellent solution for students and families seeking an educational option where students can learn from home using technology we provide.Who can attend a virtual school?
Our school is open to all students entering grades K-12 who reside in the state of Michigan. We enroll students who meet the proper age and residency requirements. Visit our
kindergarten calculator page for state-specific kindergarten age requirements, and our
Michigan age out policy for our high school age out policy.
How are virtual schools different from in-person schools?
Virtual schools allow students and families the flexibility to learn from teachers without having to attend in-person classes. Students learn from a rich and challenging curriculum, engage in live classes and discussions, have the opportunity to participate in enrichment and electives, and graduate with acceptance into a four-year college/university.How are virtual schools managed?
Virtual charter schools can operate alone or through a management organization. In the case of PVA, the management firm National Heritage Academies provides central support so the school team can focus their energy on teaching and learning.
On a local level, individual schools can be managed by their own Board of Directors who provide guidance and oversight to the principal.What are authorizers?
An authorizer is an entity that monitors the performance, finances, and organizational stability of charter schools, including our virtual school, and has the authority to close schools that do not meet required standards. Charter schools can be authorized by a state board of education, a state university, community college, or local district.How are virtual schools funded?
Charter schools, including virtual options like PrepNet Virtual Academy, are tuition-free. They receive public funding based on their number of students, and receive grants to help with some start-up costs. Many charter schools raise funds to help with other expenses. Charter schools are also eligible for federal funding for programs like Title 1 and Special Education.Are virtual school teachers credentialed?
PrepNet Virtual Academy recruits teachers who are credentialed properly from across the state of Michigan.What technology do virtual schools require?
At minimum, our virtual school requires every student to have a working laptop, which we provide, and a high-speed internet connection. Some additional functionality and accessories may be required or suggested, depending on your child's grade level and/or class. Students and families will receive communication in advance of any specific technology requirements. If you need troubleshooting assistance, call
877-642-7471 and select option 2.
Do students graduate from a virtual school with a high school diploma?
Yes! All students who graduate from our virtual school will receive a high school diploma.Do virtual schools only offer online classes?
While our required academic instruction is all provided virtually, we will also offer in-person enrichment activities students can participate in locally if they wish. We also require at least 60 hours of community service.
