Frequently Asked Questions

The Virtual Academy is a dynamic online school that offers personalized learning and schedule flexibility for students in grades K-12. This program is ideal for students in a homeschool setting. The online classes are aligned with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study and focus on English/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. World languages, elective, and Career and Technical Education classes are available.

However, students do not navigate the online school environment alone. Teachers are available to offer guidance, help with lessons, have discussions, and provide feedback on assignments. Further, students have the opportunity to interact with other Virtual Academy students through in-person enrichment activities

Parents/Guardians must be North Carolina residents. Students are expected to be self-motivated, independent learners who maintain satisfactory academics, attendance, and behavior to remain  in the program.  

Any K-12 Gaston County student may apply to attend during the choice application window. All students who apply will be screened in order to determine acceptance. 

Students are required to maintain satisfactory academics, attendance, and behavior to remain  in the program.  They must also come into the building periodically for required district and state assessments Interims, Check Ins, and in-person labs help prepare students for their state and End of Grade/Course exams.  Students may be required to engage with teachers or an engagement coach as needed through small virtual sessions.  

Students who attend the Gaston Virtual Academy gain a quality, rigorous educational experience while completing courses in a nontraditional environment. Students still get to participate in clubs and come into the building for district/state states. They may also explore through hands-on experiments/labs and various presentations from speakers within the community. Students are exposed to college and career resources and can apply for district and state programs.  Students also have the opportunity to participate in a formal graduation ceremony.  Students have the opportunity to ‘learn without limits and achieve beyond boundaries!

GVA awards the same opportunities as other high schools and produces competitive 4-year university candidates, highly successful community college candidates, strong employees going straight into the workforce, and courageous military recruits. All of these options are developed with a seasoned school counselor helping students bridge the transition from high school to their future goals.