About NCVPS

NC Virtual Public School provides courses that augment a school’s course offerings. NCVPS is not degree granting but instead provides courses a student otherwise would not be able to enroll in at the student’s school. These courses are for the independent student. Courses will be taught by a certified teacher in the subject in which they are certified to teach. Students will have access to instructors based on the office hours set up by the instructors. Students may take online courses from home, community centers, or other locations with appropriate hardware and Internet connection. Students may not take NCVPS courses on the school campus during the school day. NCPVS can only accommodate students currently enrolled in a NC Public School.

• NCVPS courses are for the independent student* / students will have access to instructors based on the office hours set up by the instructors
• NCVPS provides courses a student otherwise would not be able to enroll in at the student's local school. Students may take online courses from home, community center, or any location with appropriate hardware and Internet connection. The reasons to take an online course through NCVPS are many and include, but are not limited to, the following:
• NCVPS courses may accommodate students wanting to take courses not available locally
• NCVPS courses may accommodate students wanting to take courses whose sections at the local school are already full
• NCVPS courses may accommodate students who already have a full load and wish to take additional courses
• NCPVS courses may accommodate students whose schedule does not permit taking certain courses during the school day
• NCPVS courses may accommodate students whose special circumstances cannot be addressed locally
• NCVPS courses may accommodate students who want to graduate ahead of schedule from school

Additional Information

• NCPVS can only accommodate students currently enrolled in a NC Public School
• Students should consult with their school counselor to see if the NCVPS online course of study is a proper fit
• In the high schools, each student shall carry a course load equal to the number of instructional periods in the school day (WCPSS Policy) and
• Students may only take one additional NCPVS course per semester (fall/spring and based on availability) **Only 1 AP course may be taken per year. If a student takes an AP course, they may not register for any additional NCVPS courses during the fall/spring semesters.
• Students may take two additional NCPVS courses in summer school (based on availability)

Characteristics of Successful Online Learners

While distance learning opportunities provide tremendous benefits to students in regards to course offerings, student-centered instruction, flexible scheduling, and heightened critical thinking and written communication skills, there are specific learner characteristics that promote greater student success in online learning environments. The following guidelines may assist in identifying students for distance learning opportunities:

• Autonomous learners are generally skilled in the areas of responsibility and self-regulation, necessary for managing course assignments and deadlines through online environments.
• Academically motivated learners commonly exhibit an internal locus of control, affording online students the persistence necessary in achieving desired goals.
• Grade level reading ability is a critical determinant of student success in online environments, as much of the course is delivered through written communication.
• Proficiency in written communication is required of students, as online courses are dependent not only upon live classroom discussions but also upon group discussion boards and written assignment submissions.
• Basic computer skills are necessary for students to function in an online learning environment, as students will utilize word processing software, email capabilities, and Internet resources in completing assignments and activities.
• Parental support has also been found to promote student success in online learning, as parents will generally work to ensure students meet deadlines and have the necessary resources available to them.
• Computer and Internet access at home, although not required, can certainly provide an advantage to students participating in distance learning courses, as students, many times, prefer to continue their work on assignments and communications outside of their regular school, or even take courses at home during the evening or on weekends.

“North Carolina Virtual Public School”, 2007.  North Carolina Virtual Public School,

            July 07, 2008. www.ncvps.org/operational_guidelines.pdf.