WS/FCS Virtual Academy is a program in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School district. The program is designed to provide students with a personalized education option that offers virtual experiences that are flexible, rigorous, and innovative.

The WS/FCS Virtual Academy serves grades K-8 for the start of school. When plans for a return to face-to-face instruction are finalized, there will be more information for students of all ages who may be interested in transferring or enrolling in the WS/FCS Virtual Academy to continue full-time virtual learning.   

Application is open to all students who are eligible to enroll in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools in grades K-8. We welcome homeschool and private school students who would like to enroll to take advantage of this opportunity.  

Yes. All students who are eligible to enroll in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools district may apply.

The application window will close on July 31, 2020, at 12 am.

Students may enroll during our Choice window. However, for the 2020-2021 school year, students may enroll up until the 10th day of school. If students would like to return to their residential school they may transfer at the end of the semester.

Yes. Students will be able to be enrolled at their residential school and enroll in the WS/FCS Virtual Academy to take virtual classes.

The WS/FCS Virtual Academy gives students and families an additional option for a personalized, virtual, and flexible educational experience. Other benefits include an innovative approach to learning, fewer distractions, and a safe environment for students with underlying health conditions.  

1) To inspire, challenge, and empower students to become self-motivated learners through online instruction.

2) To utilize a complete virtual learning experience to meet the needs of students.

3) To engage all learners through a personalized experience.

There are multiple ways in which students may engage in the learning process including online and interactive off-line materials, textbooks, and other instructional materials with the guidance and support of licensed teachers.  

The number will vary from year to year. 

Students will be provided with a device by the WS/FCS Technology Department. Wi-Fi (Hot Spots) will be provided based on student needs.

Students must be in grades K-12.

• Students will need dependable internet access
• Students and parents will need valid email addresses and check them regularly.
• Students will need an electronic device (laptop, Chromebook, or desktop computer)
• Students will need a quiet study space with minimum disruption
• Students will need to commit to set aside time five days a week to keep pace with the assignments.
• Students will need strong home support (K-5)
• Students will need a high motivation level (K-5)
• Students will need a high-interest level (K-5)
• Students will need a strong commitment to learning (6-12)
• Students will need self-motivation (6-12)
• Students will need to be organized (6-12)
• Students will need to have strong home support (6-12)

The role of the parent/guardian is critical. A few suggestions for supporting your students are:

• Help your student develop a schedule for each week.
• Monitor Canvas for student grades and completion of work.
• Monitor your student to ensure that he or she is working on schoolwork or attending live lessons
• Provide a specific location for your student to work that is free from distractions and allows for monitoring of your student’s online activity.
• Review your student’s work before it is submitted and make suggestions for improvement (if applicable).
• Do not complete work for your student
• Provide assistance for your student in troubleshooting computer problems or answering course-related questions.