How do I apply for VIP Academy?
The application will be available online on the Homepage on the VIP Academy website.
If I am accepted into VIP Academy, do I have to withdraw from my home school?
Yes, if you are a current Bibb County student, you will need to withdraw from your home school. For students who are new to the district, they will need to complete the online registration process for Bibb County and then register for VIP Academy.
What is the cost to attend VIP Academy?
There is no cost to attend VIP Academy.
What are the daily and weekly requirements for learning online?
The virtual learning platform permits flexible daily scheduling with mandatory daily attendance check-in. Upon acceptance into VIP Academy, students will receive a suggested daily schedule.
Students in grades 4-12 will initially be placed in 6 courses toward their graduation plan. Upon completion of a course, a student may be eligible for the next level course as determined by the online mentor and counselor.
Additionally, on-site mentors have "big idea sessions" with the students twice a month virtually through Microsoft Teams. Student performance data determines whether tiered-support is needed, whether offered face-to-face or virtual. Best student results come from a blended model of support.
What grades levels are eligible for VIP Academy?
VIP Academy will serve students in grades 4-12. Pre-K through third grade are not included in VIP Academy because, for students in these grades, the District believes that face-to-face instruction is the most beneficial model for student learning.
Is VIP Academy the same as home schooling?
No. Students must complete work from home, though tiered support will allow students to come to the VIP Academy to receive remediation and enrichment. Courses will be facilitated by Bibb County School District teachers and Edgenuity virtual teachers.
Are virtual courses harder or easier than face-to-face courses?
Courses are developed using the GA DOE standards; therefore, they will reflect traditional content presented during face-to-face instruction. Successful students will possess these characteristics:
- Good time management
- Effective communication
- Independent study habits
- Self-motivation
- Academic readiness
What textbooks, supplies, devices, and internet access are required?
VIP Academy will provide supply lists that will vary by class and will be provided by VIP Academy and posted on the website. Each student will need to provide his or her reliable internet access, but laptops will be available based on need.
What is the VIP Academy dress code?
Students who come on campus to receive tiered support will adhere to the following dress code:
- Khakis pants or skirts (cannot exceed 2 inches above the knee).
- School Polo (available through the school)
- Black/brown belt
- Black/brown shoes/loafers or Black or White tennis shoes
During virtual meetings, student will be expected to dress appropriately for conversing with staff members.
What are the attendance requirements for VIP Academy?
Students must check in through the Canvas platform for FTE purposes by 3:00 p.m. each day.
What are the pacing requirements for VIP Academy?
Students will work at their own pace within the pacing timeline of the state curriculum. Courses have a start date and an end date. Daily and weekly goals are set for the students, but they have flexibility in how they meet these goals over a 7-day period/24 hours. We do provide recommended daily schedules as well. Virtual students can work on their courses at any time. One of the characteristics of a successful online learner is self-management, and staff will work with students to facilitate this skill.
What kind of diploma do VIP Academy graduates receive?
Students who complete the BCSD requirements will receive a High School Diploma from VIP Academy..
What courses are available at VIP Academy?
Please click HERE to view a list of courses available at VIP Academy through Edgenuity.
How will students and parents communicate with teachers?
Students and parents will communicate with teachers through the Remind app, email, and Microsoft Teams.
Who are the teachers at VIP Academy? Are they on-site or virtual?
VIP Academy is staffed with BCSD certified content virtual teachers who will provide tiered support. Also, Edgenuity provides On-demand tutoring from Grades 6-12 . These tutors are available 6 days a week up to 10:00 pm in the evening. The students will also have an Edgenuity virtual teacher to aid in monitoring their progress. Students/parents can book appointments with these teachers. VIP Academy will offer many safety-net programs to support students as well (Saturday School, Intersession School, and After-school). These services will be face-to-face and/or virtual.
How do I know if virtual learning is the right option for my child?
Key characteristics for successful virtual learning include:
- Good time management skills
- Effective communication
- Independent study habits
- Self-motivationAcademic readiness
How will I monitor my child's academic progress?
Your child’s academic progress can be monitored daily through the Genius SIS System. Login information will be provided by the school.
What are the contact numbers for technical support?
- Hardware: Dr. Arndra Jackson 478-779-4851
- Canvas: Dr. Monica Radcliff 478-779-2579
- Edgenuity and Genius: Dr. Julia Daniely 478-779-4802
Can VIP Academy students try out for sports or participate in extracurricular activities in Bibb County schools?
Yes, students will be eligible to try-out for sports as determined by GHSA eligibility and/or participate in extra-curricular activities at the middle or high school located in your school zone. Club participation will also be offered at VIP Academy. Additionally, 22 Edgenuity courses available at VIP Academy meet NCAA eligibility requirements.
Can my child enroll in CTAE courses or dual enrollment?
Yes, CTAE pathways and dual enrollment courses are offered through W.S. Hutchings College and Career Academy.
What standardized testing is required of VIP Academy students?
Students will be required to take all state-mandated and district benchmark assessments including Georgia Milestones.
Can a VIP Academy student transfer back to a traditional campus during the school year?
We recommend that a virtual student commit to at least one school year; however a student may elect to transfer to a traditional setting at the end of a semester. However, this is not highly recommended because of the supports students will receive to help them be successful virtually.