Welcome to the Valley Online Learning Center

The Valley Online Learning Center (VOLC) is an alternative pathway within Valley High School designed for students who thrive with flexibility, independence, and a blend of in-person and online learning. As a CDE-approved program, we offer a personalized approach to earning a high school diploma by combining the convenience of Edgenuity’s online platform with the essential accountability of on-site support.

Why Choose the VOLC?

  • The Power of the Hybrid Model: While remote learning is possible, our blended learning model has proven more successful than being 100% remote.
  • Workforce Readiness: Students are not bound by a traditional bell schedule; you may arrive later or leave campus once your work and check-ins are complete, promoting independence and responsibility.
  • A Valley High Diploma: You graduate with a VHS diploma and meet the same graduation requirements as your peers.
  • Full Campus Access: VOLC students can still take in-person electives, join clubs, and participate in VHS athletics and activities.

What the Admissions Team Looks For

Admission is not guaranteed, and most students begin the program at the start of a new semester. The team evaluates applicants based on:

  • Student Readiness: Demonstration of motivation, independence, and time management skills.
  • Academic Potential: Success in prior coursework.
  • Home Infrastructure: Consistent access to high-speed internet.
  • Support System: Supportive parents/guardians and the ability to meet regular in-person attendance requirements.
Enrollment Information

To apply for enrollment at the VOLC, students must:

  1. Be high school age and not yet 21 years old
  2. Be a Colorado Resident

The Enrollment Process

  1. Counselor Meeting: The student or parent/guardian meets with a VHS counselor to explore if the VOLC matches the student's personal needs and situation.
  2. Application Submission: If the program is deemed a good fit, the counselor refers the student to the principal, and the student must submit a formal application found on the school website.
  3. Initial Review: An administrator or counselor will contact the family within two weeks of the application to schedule an initial meeting.
  4. Final Decision: The administration team, counselor, and VOLC Director make the final admission decision.

Important Enrollment Notes

  • Count Day: Participation is mandatory for enrollment verification. Students must be physically present at the VOLC for at least 5 hours on the official Count Day and submit at least two assignments per class.
  • Course Load: Full-time online enrollment requires at least 6 classes, while blended/hybrid enrollment requires at least 5 classes.
  • Attendance Law: Students must comply with the Colorado Compulsory Attendance Law; failure to meet requirements may result in a student being moved back to a traditional schedule.
Staff Members
Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the VOLC?

The VOLC is a hybrid online program that allows students to take Edgenuity classes to gain their required credits. It is a place where students work at their own pace, and it is expected that students be self-motivated and responsible for their own learning.

2. How do I apply?

Interested students should first meet with their school counselor. If the program is a good fit, the counselor refers the student to the principal, and a formal application is submitted to the VOLC Director for review. A final meeting with the student and family is held to determine admission.

3. How many in-person hours do I need?

Most students are required to be on-site for a minimum of 15 hours per week. If a student falls more than 10% behind in any class, they are required to attend daily in-person from 9:00 AM – 3:40 PM, Tuesday through Friday, until they are back on track.

4. How many online hours do I need in Edgenuity?

We use an engagement formula: you must complete at least 4 hours per week for every online class you are enrolled in (e.g., 6 classes = 24 hours/week). To stay on pace, students should aim for about 6 hours of engagement per day.

5. Can I graduate early?

Yes. Many students use the flexibility of the VOLC to complete courses faster than they would in a traditional classroom. Students who graduate in December are welcome to walk with their class in May and participate in Prom.

6. Can I still take in-person classes?

Absolutely. We encourage "Blended Learning," where students take core classes through the VOLC and attend elective or concurrent enrollment classes in person at the VHS building.

7. Can I still participate in extracurriculars?

Yes. To remain eligible for sports and clubs, students must be passing at least 5 classes (or 70% of their classes if enrolled in more than 7).

8. What elective classes are offered at the VOLC?

The VOLC offers a wide range of Edgenuity electives, including Art History, Psychology, Sociology, Personal Finance, Law Enforcement, and Spanish. Please see the "VOLC Course Catalog" link above for a full list.

9. What type of support will I receive?

Students have access to a licensed teacher on-site, as well as digital tools like read-aloud support, translations, and guided notes. All quizzes and exams are proctored during school hours (2nd–7th periods) to provide immediate support and ensure academic integrity.

10. As a parent, how can I check my student's progress?

Parents can access the Edgenuity Parent Portal for real-time updates on grades and time spent on tasks. This portal provides more up-to-date information than Infinite Campus. Please contact the VOLC Director for your personalized setup link.

11. What is required for "Count Day"?

In-person attendance is mandatory for state reporting. Students must be physically present at the VOLC for at least 5 hours and submit required assignments to verify enrollment.