Our school is founded on the following core beliefs:

– Everyone works and learns best in an atmosphere of safety.

– Open and honest communication is essential.

– A climate of respect promotes efficient and creative learning.

– Professional relationships with students, parents, and teachers promote commitment and desire for continued learning.

– Teamwork among students, partners, parents, and staff is essential for enjoyable learning experiences.

– Students thrive in environments of hope and encouragement.

– A distributed learning environment is a powerful tool for fostering positive skills, abilities, and attitudes.

– Distance learning programs work when students are focused and organized, parents are supportive, and staff members are dedicated.

Our specific beliefs inspire our work with our key participants:

– Students are unique and must be provided with effective student-centered programs.

– Parents are valued partners seeking the best educational opportunities for their children.

– Our staff is professional and dedicated to providing quality student-centered education while encouraging continuous progress.

These beliefs guide our actions in providing the best education possible for all of our students (full-time, part-time, and adult) across the province and ensuring equitable access to education.

Accessibility

– Distance learning with Vista Virtual School is accessible by anyone with an internet connection.

Flexibility

– VVS students are able to to complete their course work within a traditional school year, a semester, or faster.

– Students can work on their coursework any time of the day, any day of the week, giving them flexibility in relation to studies elsewhere, employment, and other commitments.

– VVS’ flexible scheduling options make it easy for students to fill in gaps in their educational background and with the necessary teacher-directed instruction.

Safety

– Students with social, emotional, and/or mental health concerns can benefit from a study environment free from the anxieties associated with traditional classroom settings.

– Inclusive Education teachers work with students and parents to develop Instructional Support Plans (ISP).

– VVS provides a full school experience with reduced health risks, notably those related to COVID-19.

– Districts may seek special needs distance education services because the children themselves may be higher risk.

Results

– The achievement levels of VVS students are as high, or higher, than the provincial average (as measured by Diploma Exam results).

– Continuity is key to high achievement, and VVS’ programming allows students to continue with their at-home education for as long as it is beneficial to them.

Cost effectiveness

– Other divisions can take advantage of solutions for their students to complete their programming for less cost than if the division provided the instruction themselves 

– Through an Education Services Agreement (ESA), VVS provides instruction for $130/credit while divisions are funded at approximately $190/credit for high school students).

– VVS can easily accommodate unusual timetable needs in ways that are costly (and in some cases impossible) for regular schools.

Solutions for international school-aged students

– Distance learning through VVS enables Alberta families living abroad to maintain their children’s Alberta education.

– Citizens of other countries can receive a world-class Alberta education through VVS.

– Alberta-accredited international schools can use VVS to complement their own programming.

Options for adult learners

– Registering with VVS gives Alberta adults access to a variety of courses to complete their high school diploma, improve high school marks, learn new skills, and/or fulfill post-secondary requirements.

– Adult upgrading courses are offered through continuous (year-round) registration.

– Adult students have the option of completing a core course or a 3- or 5-credit elective course in six months, or a 1-credit career and technology studies (CTS) course in three months.

Like other schools, we have Student-Parent-Teacher Interviews, a graduation ceremony, an awards ceremony, and field trips planned throughout the year to help connect our wider school community.

For School-Aged Students

– Grades 1-12 – Primary/Full-time Students (students not currently attending another school)

– Grades 1-12 – Non-Primary/Part-time Students (high school students currently registered in another school division)

– Partnerships with Schools – Education Services Agreement (ESA) Students

Adults & International Students

– Adult Upgrading

– International Students