PrepNet Virtual Academy Learning Programs

Live Online vs. Self-Paced

NEW for 2025-26, families can choose the learning model that works best for them: Live Online and Self-Paced. Each learning model uses a research-backed curriculum and is supported by credentialed teachers. Want a structured school day with live classes? Or a more flexible schedule where your student works at their own pace? This page will help you decide which path is the best fit.

Program Comparison

Feature	Live Online Program	Self-Paced Program
Instruction	Students participate in live classes led by teachers Students attend and participate in live sessions with their classmates and teachers during the school day.	Students learn independently with support from parents/guardians Students access courses and assignments within our learning management system, Canvas. Students work through lessons independently, with direct support provided by parents/guardians at home. PVA teachers provide support and feedback to ensure Self-Paced students stay on track.
Schedule	Students follow a schedule with consistent start and end times Students follow a daily schedule that begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:20 p.m. The school day includes live online classes, a dedicated lunch time, and built-in breaks.	Students choose when to work each day or week Students and parents/guardians develope their own weekly schedule for learning and work completion. Students should expect to spend an average of 35 hours per week on coursework.
Pace	Students follow the timeline set by the teacher Teachers set the timeline for work completion each week. Assignment due dates are noted within our learning management system, Canvas.	Students work at their own pace to complete weekly required assignments Course content and assignments are posted each week on Monday mornings. All assigned learning is due on Sunday by midnight.
Role of the Parent/Guardian	Parents and guardians provide structure and stay connected with teachers Parents/guardians are responsible to ensure their child is on time for all sessions and actively engaged in learning. All parents/guardians have access to monitor grades and work completion.	Parent and guardians act as learning coaches Parents/guardians act as learning coaches who lead their child's daily school routine. Learning coaches have different commitment based on their child's grade level: For students in K–5: Learning coaches should expect to spend 35 hours per week supporting their child's learning For students in 6–8: Learning coaches should expect to spend 15-20 hours per week supporting their child's learning For students in 9–12: Learning coaches should expect to check in daily and support as needed All parents/guardians have access to monitor grades and work completion.
Academic Support	Live teacher instruction Students receive live instruction from teachers and mentors during the school day. Virtual office hours Support is also available for students in grades 7–12 through optional virtual office hour sessions. Additional support as needed Students with IEPs will also receive support from their caseload managers as directed by their IEP.	Weekly check-ins Students receive regular support through one live Moral Focus™ lesson each week, as well as an assigned small group or one on one sessions. Virtual office hours Teachers also provide support through virtual office hours once per week. Additional support as needed Students with IEPs will also receive support from their caseload managers as directed by their IEP.
Technology Requirements	Same for both programs: High speed internet Chromebooks are provided Students are allowed to use their own device if it falls within requirements Headphones with microphone to participate in class
Community and Events	Same for both programs: Field trips (K–12) Award Ceremonies, Celebrations, and Special Events Clubs (7–12) National Honors Society & Student Council (7–12) Prom & Graduation (Seniors ONLY) Yearbook (for purchase annually)
Courses Offered	Same for both programs: English Language Arts (grades K–12) Math (grades K–12) Science (grades K–12) History/ Social Studies (grades K–12) Electives (grades K–12) Moral Focus™ (grades K–12) College Advisory (grades 7–12) World Language (grades 9–12) Early Middle College Program (must meet program qualifications)
State Testing	Same for both programs: State-required in-person tests for all students in grades 3–11
Additional Services	Same for both programs: ELL, counseling, and technology support