How It Works
Welcome to Summit Virtual Academy!
Summit Virtual Academy is an online school with highly qualified certificated teachers. Teachers develop a Written Student Learning Plan for each student, evaluate student work, track student progress on a variety of academic measures, and make the final determination of student success in the program.
Who can attend?
Any NTPS student in grades K-12 can enroll. There are a limited number of openings for students who live outside North Thurston Public Schools and wish to request a choice transfer.
How much does it cost?
Summit provides curriculum, materials, and technology for students free of charge. A $10 assurance fee is required to cover the use of your device.
What does a typical school day look like?
At Summit, the school day starts at 9:00 am with Base Camp Class, where you meet with your teacher and other students in your grade. It's a time to connect, socialize, and plan your day. Throughout the day, you'll have live online classes with caring teachers, time to work independently on your Chromebook or with materials sent to you, and small group or one-on-one support. You can expect to spend 5–6 hours per day on our schooling. You're never alone—our support team is always here to help you succeed.
Summit is a part of North Thurston Public Schools
The mission of NTPS is to prepare all students for rewarding careers, fulfilling lives, and compassionate global citizenship. Summit Virtual Academy aligns with Washington State’s Alternative Learning Experience (ALE) requirements under WAC 392-550: Alternative Learning Experience Requirements and is governed by the same rules and laws that apply to other public schools. For more information, visit OSPI's Alternative Learning Department.
5 Reasons to Join Summit
- Study with highly-qualified, dedicated, caring NTPS certified teachers.
- Learn from home with reduced distractions and increased parent involvement.
- Build close and supportive teacher/student/caregiver relationships for improved student learning.
- Use rigorous online curriculum and exceptional learning support tools.
- Interact with teachers and classmates daily and attend optional social opportunities online and in-person.
5 Things Summit Families Should Know
- Expect 5-6 hours of schooling daily.
- Parents take an active role by supporting student success every day and meeting regularly with teachers.
- Successful students are self-motivated, establish and follow a daily routine, and participate in every course every day.
- Successful students actively engage in required live class sessions.
- Summit follows all requirements for Washington State public schools, including daily attendance, progress reporting, and state testing.
Student Responsibilities
Students attend live classes with their teachers and classmates and complete daily lessons online. Students refer to textbooks and other interactive materials as directed in the lesson plans. Attributes of a successful online learner include:
- Perseverance
- Motivation and independence
- Strong communication skills
- Efficient time-management skills
Teacher Responsibilities
NTPS certificated teachers set goals and expectations with students, direct online instruction, grade assignments, administer state and school assessments, monitor progress, and communicate with families.
Parent/Guardian Responsibilities
For K-8 students, parents/guardians are learning coaches who assist students with the curriculum and a schedule. Parents also ensure the students engage with their teachers and participate in live lessons.
For grades 9-12, parents/guardians help keep students accountable for meeting class pacing expectations and completing assignments. Students work more independently but need someone at home to provide students with support, motivation, and guidance.
Parents/guardians also ensure their students have a quiet learning space at a table or desk to participate in class sessions and complete schoolwork.