Virtual Learning Academy

FMCSD Announces Continuation of Virtual Learning Academy

(FORT MCMURRAY, AB – May 18, 2021) Fort McMurray Catholic Schools is pleased to announce the continuation of our Virtual Learning Academy for the 2021/22 school year.

It is important for families to note the number of enrolled students and ability to hire qualified staff will determine the ability to offer Virtual Learning Academy at various grade levels. Students may be in a split grade and options may or may not be available as part of our programming.

“The Virtual Learning Academy has been a great success this year meeting students where they are. The COVID-19 pandemic may have necessitated the creation of the academy, but the flexibility, leadership and creativity of our staff have shown the true spirit of the Fort McMurray Catholic Schools family.” – Fort McMurray Catholic Schools Superintendent George McGuigan 

“The Virtual Learning Academy is committed to maintaining high standards, building strong student-teacher connections, and helping parents efficiently monitor progress. Regular communication with families addresses the specific needs of each student and helps facilitate success. Many of our students have shown tremendous academic growth because they have become successful independent learners that benefited from the real connections they made with their teachers and classmates online.” – Virtual Learning Academy Principal Deborah Kitching 

The Virtual Learning full-time academy program provides students with the opportunity to engage in their learning online together with a certified teacher on Google Classroom and other digital platforms. Students will engage in digital communications (email, videos, chat, message boards) and occasional face-to-face sessions as needed.

To be eligible for our Virtual Learning Academy the student must be registered full-time with a Fort McMurray Catholic School and choose to enroll in the Virtual Learning Academy for the 2021-2022 school year. Students enrolled in this program are to be prepared to complete their education in this format for the entire school year. 

The deadline for registration for the 2021/22 school year is August 23, 2021.

**Enrollment in this program requires an intake interview with the parent/guardian to ensure that this program is the best fit for their child as we believe children learn best when they are in school with face to face instruction.

The Virtual Learning Academy is a good fit for students who:

• Are willing to invest in a full-year commitment to this style of learning
• Like the flexibility of working in a home environment with the help of a certified teacher
• Are strong in reading and comprehension 

Are organized and have the skills to work independently

• Are willing to commit to participate regularly with teachers and other students through virtual learning tools
• Have the ability to show learning through a variety of digital means
• Are able to stick to a routine of learning and complete assignments on time

Parents must be prepared to support their child so they can be successful in this program. 

For more information on our Virtual Learning Academy please visit https://fmcschools.ca/virtual-learning-academy/ or contact the Principal Deborah Kitching at deborah.kitching@fmcsd.ab.ca.