Options virtual charter principal and students highlight college credits, workforce pathways

Jess Riley, high school principal at Options Virtual Charter School, told the Elkhorn Area School District board on April 28 that the virtual program’s students earned roughly 570 college credits this year and that the program’s current enrollment is about 144 students, with 66% participating through open enrollment. "This year alone, our students have accomplished 570 college credits," Riley said, describing how the program’s flexibility and teacher support allow students to combine work, internships and college courses.

Two students who attend Options gave personal accounts. Bella, a junior, said the program’s flexible schedule let her work mornings while taking medical terminology and nursing classes in the afternoons: "The flexible schedule gives you the chance to explore jobs and personal passions outside the school." Lily, a senior, credited a supportive teacher for helping her reengage with learning and said she will attend Arizona State University next year; she added that the work experience she gained at Starbucks will help pay for college.

Riley summarized program pathways and partnerships, citing Gateway, UW campuses and several technical colleges as common next steps for graduates and noting growing offerings in EMT, fire science and advanced manufacturing. Riley also described a "Rising Phoenix" partnership with UW–Green Bay that produced a first round of acceptance letters; she said all Elkhorn students who applied received offers.

The presentation included program goals tied to outcomes: increase work‑based learning participation by 20% by 2026 and achieve 40% dual‑credit participation by 2028. Riley said staff track student success with pathway programming, certificates and technical diplomas in areas such as culinary, medical assisting and nursing assistant, and highlighted individual successes including early university admission and research opportunities.

Board members thanked Riley and the students and noted that Options serves a range of learners, including students who left brick‑and‑mortar schools and have since graduated or moved into apprenticeships and college programs. The presentation concluded with the board’s acknowledgement of Options’ role in offering flexible, career‑oriented pathways that also generate revenue for district initiatives through open enrollment.

The board’s discussion prior to moving on to subsequent agenda items focused on program scale, partnerships and how virtual options align with district goals for college and career readiness.