Sonoma County Virtual Academy expands elective offerings with new Edgenuity courses

The Windsor Unified School District (WUSD) School Board convened on March 13, 2025, to discuss the approval of new courses for the Sonoma County Virtual Academy, presented by Bridal Williams. The proposed courses, sourced from the Edgenuity platform, aim to expand elective options for Secovia students, ensuring they align with the A-G requirements for University of California admissions.

Williams explained that the principal selected courses based on student interest and the offerings available at Windsor High School. The board acknowledged the importance of providing diverse and engaging options for students enrolled in the virtual academy.

A concern was raised regarding the accuracy of course content, specifically referencing past issues with inaccuracies in Aztec history materials. Williams noted that the courses are provided by the publisher, and the only contact for feedback is the sales representative, who could not provide satisfactory answers regarding the errors. This highlighted the need for vigilance in course content, as the online format means students rely solely on the provided materials.

Board member Jeremy inquired about the program's capacity, confirming that it can accommodate up to 100,000 students, indicating no current limitations on enrollment. The discussion also touched on the academy's appeal to students from neighboring Santa Rosa, with reports suggesting that nearly half of the current enrollment comes from that area. This trend underscores the academy's role as a vital educational option within the region.

The board expressed optimism about the program's growth and its potential to attract more students, emphasizing that the online model allows for flexible hiring based on enrollment without the constraints of physical space. The meeting concluded with a sense of accomplishment regarding the new course approvals and the academy's expanding reach in the community.