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High school reports 46 students participated in first year of virtual program; 221 credits earned districtwide
Summary
Principal Brooke Tharp told the board the district’s new high school virtual program served 46 students this year (reasons included discipline, mental health, medical needs, and out-of-state moves); students earned 221 total credits with 51 failed credits, and the district plans to continue the option with eight currently enrolled for next year.
The Mt Vernon High School virtual learning pilot served 46 students during its inaugural year, Principal Brooke Tharp told the board. The program was created to retain students who otherwise might leave for outside virtual options and to provide alternate placements for students needing different settings.
Tharp detailed participant reasons and outcomes: 20 students entered the program for discipline-related placements; 17 for alternate settings tied to mental-health needs; others were seniors completing a small number of credits after moving out of state or students with medical treatments. Ten students graduated this year through the virtual program; eight students returned to in-person learning because of attendance or academic concerns, and two withdrew from the district.
On academic outcomes, Tharp reported 86 credits earned and 18 failed credits in the first semester, and 135 credits earned with 33 failed credits in the second semester, for a year total of 221 credits earned and 51 failed credits. The district defined success as earning credits while meeting attendance policies. Supports included weekly outreach by Mrs. Grim, coordination with counselors, special education staff participation in case conferences, and involvement of a life coach when appropriate.
Looking ahead, Tharp said eight students are currently enrolled for next year in the virtual program and the number is expected to grow. Board members had no additional questions at the close of the presentation.
Next steps: Administration will monitor outcomes and supports; staff will report enrollment and performance data as the district prepares for the next school year.
