Choctaw-Nicoma Park Public Schools and Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy Announce New Online Public School

School Now Enrolling Students in Grades K-11 Across Oklahoma

CHOCTAW, Okla., June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Families in Oklahoma now have access to an innovative new public school with the opening of the Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA).

OVCA is a tuition-free online public charter school that will serve students in grades kindergarten through high school beginning this Fall.  The school is open to eligible residents of Oklahoma.  

OVCA is now accepting applications to enroll in the school.  The school is planning to host numerous community events and information sessions for parents and students interested in learning more about the online public school.  Families can receive more information about OVCA at www.K12.com/ovca.

OVCA was recently approved by Choctaw-Nicoma Park Public Schools.  The charter school is governed by an independent, nonprofit school board.  

Kristi Gifford, board president, said, "The board is excited to offer this public school option to Oklahoma families.  This school will offer parents an excellent school choice with a focus on personalized learning through the use of a high quality curriculum.  For many families, online schools are the best opportunity for their children to succeed academically.  We thank the Choctaw-Nicoma Park Schools for making this possible."

Dr. Jim McCharen, Superintendent of Choctaw-Nicoma Park Public Schools, said, "Choctaw-Nicoma Park Public Schools is proud to partner with OVCA to expand education opportunities for Oklahoma's students.  Online learning is growing as educators look for new ways to individualize learning.  OVCA will help meet the education needs of students and help foster a close partnership with teachers and parents."

OVCA plans to use the curriculum and program offered by K12 Inc., the largest provider of K-12 online school programs in the U.S.  The K12 program is used by school districts and charter schools across the country and has received numerous awards for innovation and excellence.  

OVCA will offer students the opportunity to receive a personalized learning program outside the traditional classroom, usually at home.  Students will have greater flexibility to work at a level and pace that fits their individual needs.  

Students will benefit from a wide offering of courses including core subjects, world languages, AP and honors courses, and other exciting high school electives. Certified teachers will provide instruction and support and work in partnership with the student's "Learning Coach" – a parent or responsible adult.  

Students will access online lessons, participate in teacher-led web-based classes, and also receive off-line education materials delivered to directly to their home.

Students will be required to meet accountability standards, including academic and attendance requirements, and participation in state assessment tests.

SOURCE Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy