• Michigan Virtual (21F)

    Okemos Public Schools strongly believes that face-to-face classroom instruction at the middle and high school levels is the best learning environment for students. If the opportunity exists for students to enroll in a course offered at the middle or high school, students are strongly encouraged to do so. In Section 21f of the Michigan School Code students are permitted to enroll in up to two online courses per semester.

    Okemos Public Schools strongly believes that a student should only choose online courses if (1) a desired course is not offered by one of the Okemos Public Schools or (2) a student’s course schedule presents a conflict which prohibits the student from enrolling in a course offered at Okemos High School. An online course should not be chosen if one of the Okemos Public Schools offers the course and the course can be scheduled in the student’s daily schedule.

    In addition, a student may not enroll in an online course if (1) the course is not offered for credit, (2) the credit offered in not consistent with the unit of credit required (semester credit for HS, trimester credit for MS) (3) the student previously earned credit in the course, (4) the course is inconsistent with the student’s graduation requirements or post-secondary plans, (5) the student does not possess the prerequisite knowledge and skills to be successful in the course, (6) the student demonstrated failure in previous online coursework in the same subject, or (7) the course is of insufficient quality or rigor, as determined by the district.

    Requirements:
    Online learning presents challenges that are different from the face-to-face classroom experience. This type of learning requires a high degree of self-discipline and motivation, the ability to keep up with ongoing, sometimes very demanding expectations without the constraints of a fixed time and place setting, and the ability to deal with isolation that may occur from this form of individual learning.

    To be successful in an online class, a student must be a self-starter with a strong sense of direction and the ability to set goals and follow through. A successful online student will work independently, stay on task and maintain a regular schedule of logging on and keeping up with readings, course assignments, homework and other expectations. The content of online courses is generally as rigorous, if not more rigorous, as that found in a face-to-face classroom course. An online class is different, not necessarily easier or harder, and the added factor of self-motivation and self-discipline may cause additional challenges.

    Available Courses:
    A Statewide catalog, maintained by Michigan Virtual University, contains the syllabi for online courses offered by any Michigan district and the Michigan Virtual School. Any online course in which a student chooses to enroll must be for credit, consistent with graduation requirements, and of sufficient quality or rigor. If not, one of the Okemos Public Schools (grades 6-12) may deny the student and parent/guardian request to enroll in an online course.

    Cost:
    If Okemos High School (9-12) approves a student to enroll in an online course, the course must be one of the student’s six required classes per semester. The district will pay up to 1/12th of the district’s per pupil foundation allowance toward the cost of the course. The student/parent will bear any cost above that amount. If Kinawa School (6) or Chippewa Middle School (7-8) approves a student to enroll in an online course, the course must be one of the student’s seven required classes per trimester. The district will pay up to 1/18th of the district’s per pupil foundation allowance toward the cost of the course. The student/parent will bear any cost above that amount. The student/parent will bear the cost of any online course taken in addition to the student’s full-time class schedule.

     

    Graduation Alliance (GA)

    Graduation Alliance’s research-based approach to alternative education is holistic in nature, pairing time and place flexibility with the social-emotional supports that many at-risk and non-traditional students require in order to stay on track for graduation and successfully transition to life after high school. Graduation Alliance's Alternative Education programs are turn-key solutions that allow educators to focus their limited time and resources on other important initiatives. Delivering comprehensive student support and real-time visibility of student progress, Graduation Alliance’s Alternative Education solutions include:

    • The technology and internet access required to bridge the digital divide. Wireless-enabled laptops allow students to work on their classes at any time  and from anywhere
    • Comprehensive support, delivered through proactive online and in-person mentors, to overcome even the most substantial obstacles en route to college and careers
    • Highly-qualified teachers who are licensed in the student’s state and tutors who are available 24/7, allowing students to get help whenever they need it
    • Student resiliency assessments and development programs to help promote the growth of vital non-cognitive skills3
    • A FERPA-compliant academic monitoring system that permits a real-time review of the progress being made by individuals or specific groups of students

    Across the nation in a diverse spectrum of communities, Graduation Alliance has demonstrated that when students get the support they need, even those facing the most substantial life obstacles can earn a high school diploma and graduate fully prepared for what comes next.

    Please see your counselor to discuss if you meet the criteria to enroll in Graduation Alliance.