Curious about how online learning works?
With online learning, your teen can learn at home, or wherever there's an internet connection, while enjoying the benefits and support of a school program. They'll complete a mix of online lessons and offline activities, using K12-provided books and materials.* State-licensed teachers provide instruction in virtual sessions called "Class Connects."
What To Expect
UTVA Programs
Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA) uses quality curriculum from K12 designed to let students find the learning style that works best for them, allowing them to find their own path to success. Each online classroom offers engaging and relevant lessons that build on your child’s interests and abilities. Our career and college prep program also helps middle and high school students prepare for life after graduation.
What’s my role as a parent?
You’ll play an active and important role as your child’s Learning Coach. Plan to:
- Provide academic support, motivation, and guidance throughout the school year
- Ensure your child is on track with assignments and coursework
- Communicate with teachers
- Report daily attendance
If you or your child’s legal guardian are unable to fill this role, you can choose a family member, friend, or another trusted adult to be the Learning Coach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to attend Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA)?
Any student in grades K–12 who resides in Utah is eligible for full-time enrollment. Students in grades 7–12 may also be eligible for part-time enrollment through the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP), if they are currently attending either a public school within their resident district, a private school, a state-approved charter school, or are home schooled.
How many of my children can I enroll in UTVA?
Because UTVA provides the lesson plans and materials needed for grades K–12, many parents find it easy to enroll multiple children in the program. We currently have families with as many as five children in the program being guided by one teaching adult in conjunction with the support of Utah Virtual Academy teachers.
What does it cost to attend UTVA?
UTVA is a public school, so there is no tuition. We provide Utah-licensed teachers and instructional materials. Students and families will be responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). In addition, families are required to provide their own computers and internet access to participate in the program.
What is the attendance policy?
Utah Virtual Academy works with families to achieve a positive attendance record that meets the required 180 instructional days.
Can our family take a vacation during the school year?
The school calendar includes school holidays or vacation time. Whenever possible, family vacations should align with school vacation days. Parents are encouraged to contact their student’s teacher if they plan a vacation that does not coordinate with the school calendar.
How much time will my child spend online?
In the younger grades, many of the online lessons include offline work. Students in grades K–2 spend about 30–40 percent of their time on the computer, while students in grades 3–5 spend about 50–60 percent of their time online. Screen time increases in middle school, and by high school, most of the school day is online.
Can my child take courses with Utah Virtual Academy part-time while enrolled in another school?
As part of the Utah Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP), also known as our part-time option, students in grades 7–12 attending a local district school, approved charter school, private school, or homeschool can take up to six tuition-free credit-bearing online courses with UTVA using the K12 curriculum. See the Part-Time SOEP Courses page for more information. Outside of the SOEP, students in grades K–12 must be enrolled full-time with UTVA.
How do I enroll in the part-time option through the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP) for grades 7–12?
Please see our How to Enroll Part-Time page for more information on eligibility and how to get started with SOEP courses.