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Rockcastle board hears My Rock Online and Academy update; students describe flexible program benefits
Summary
Staff and students described the district’s My Rock Online program and the in-person academy, reporting current enrollments, graduation progress and examples of student opportunities and supports.
District staff presented an update on the My Rock Online program and the in-person Academy, describing enrollment, supports for students and several student testimonies.
The presenter said the in-person Academy serves roughly 15 students currently and noted four students had completed enough credits for graduation; staff expected more students to rejoin sending schools at the beginning of the nine‑week period (October 27). The presenter said partner organizations — including Somerset Bridal Health and JAG — visit for daily group activities.
For My Rock Online, staff listed current counts as about 14 middle‑school students online, 66 high‑school students online and 28 students enrolled at the Academy who are also working online. Staff described weekly monitoring practices: a spreadsheet updated midweek flags students who are behind, and staff contact students and families by call, text or email. Teachers and staff hold grade‑level and individual Google Meets for check‑ins; students with individualized education plans (IEPs) receive additional scheduled contacts.
Multiple students addressed the board about the program. Sophomore Aslan Howard said switching to the online program allowed him to pursue music and ministry opportunities, and he described touring, recording and upcoming travel tied to his work. Other students — including Rachel Martin — said the program allowed them to continue competitive athletics, travel for ministry and maintain part‑time work while completing coursework. A parent and students praised staff outreach, structure, and the program’s flexibility.
Staff said the Academy runs a ‘‘student of the month’’ recognition, club day activities, and supports job shadows and community visits. Staff also described interventions for students who fall more than 10% behind, including increased in‑person attendance requirements.
Board members thanked staff and students for the presentation and noted the program’s role in accommodating non‑traditional student schedules and journeys beyond graduation.
