Frankfort High School continues to expand its systems of support to meet the needs of students, both inside and outside the traditional classroom setting. Through the Frankfort Virtual Academy (FVA) and the new Alternative Education program, students are finding flexible paths to success that better align with their individual goals and circumstances.
In its first semester, Frankfort Virtual Academy served 33 students, including 12 seniors. “We navigated a new program together and worked to find the best ways to support students while also giving them specific targets to try to meet to reach the goal of completing classes, earning credits, and for those 12 seniors, graduate!” said FVA Director Kristen Horrell. Since then, the program has grown to about 100 students. “We have met specific needs of students such as mental health, medical, changes in families, a need to work, and a change in address,” Horrell said. “Some students choose to remain completely virtual, but others come to FHS for some of their classes. This is the program that excites me the most because it blends the community aspect of in-person learning with the need for virtual learning.”
Senior Jose Morales-Viveros joined FVA after moving out of district so he could stay connected to Frankfort High School. “It has allowed me to learn at my own pace and graduate a year early! With that flexibility I have been able to focus on my business and learn more outside of school,” he said. His advice for other students: “It’s a great opportunity, just be responsible and try not to fall behind. You manage that and you’ll do great! If you’ve got other goals and want more control over your schedule, Frankfort Virtual Academy is worth trying out!”
This year, FHS introduced Frankfort Academy – Alternative Education. The new program provides another route for students to earn credits and work toward graduation. “Students who qualify under criteria outlined by the Department of Education can choose to attend either 3 hours in the morning or the afternoon,” Horrell explained. “Instruction and curriculum is delivered through the computer and students are provided feedback and corrective actions. We have licensed teachers in the classroom to help and assist students with their learning.” The program has already seen strong progress, with students earning over 25 credits during the first semester alone. For some, it offers the flexibility to balance work and school; for others, it provides more support for their mental health, allowing them to re-engage with learning and move toward graduation.
Both FVA and the Alternative Education program reflect the joint commitment of both the Community Schools of Frankfort and Frankfort High School to provide every student with a system of support that meets them where they are. The bottom line for both of these programs is to help students stay connected, find balance, and achieve their goals.