St. Mary's County Public Schools (SMCPS) understands that digital learning is a way to individualize student learning opportunities. Online learning opportunities are available for original credit, credit recovery, quarterly recovery, and unit recovery in blended learning environments. Online learning or eLearning provides an opportunity for students to take a course when enrollment is too low to assign a teacher to a traditional classroom. Blended learning environments incorporate both face-to-face and online learning. Technology and digital resources are employed to improve student productivity and learning as well as extend the "learning day."
SMCPS Virtual Academy
St. Mary's County Public Schools (SMCPS) will be open for in-person instruction for five days of instruction each week, for 180 school days, for the 2021-2022 school year. SMCPS is also opening a Virtual Pathway program for students in grades 3-12 who wish to remain virtual or have other needs requiring a virtual learning experience. This program is being planned for implementation using pending grant funds through the ESSER III program, which was presented at the May 12, 2021, Board of Education meeting.
The SMCPS Virtual program will offer courses for grades 3-12. This online learning opportunity will utilize Schoology as the base platform, while incorporating high-engagement strategies and synchronous sessions using video conferencing. Teachers will be instructing virtually, but will be on-site at an SMCPS location, which may provide for some in-person opportunities such as tutoring, additional hands-on experiences, as appropriate during the school year. Additionally, students and teachers will continue to have access to counseling, sports, performing arts, and clubs at their home school. All local, state, and federally required assessments and supports will be given.
Students who enroll in this program will enroll for the school year and have opportunities to either continue virtual or enroll in traditional in-person instruction each year. As this program is conducted through a virtual learning environment, transportation is not provided for any activities.
If your family is interested in the virtual learning program for the 2021-2022 school year, please complete go to the Virtual Academy website linked HERE.
If you would like additional information please contact the Office of Accountability and Assessments at 301-475-5511, x32106.