Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is the free SPS Online Program no longer available?
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Suffolk Public Schools created the SPS Online Program during the 2021-2022 school year in response to legislation (SB1303) requiring the provision of both face-to-face and virtual instructional options during the pandemic. Since its inception, the SPS Online Program has been supported by funds provided through the CARES Act. With the expiration of both the legislation (ended August 2022) and the CARES Act funding (ending September 2024), effective the 2024-2025 school year, Suffolk Public Schools will discontinue paying for the full-time instruction of SPS students in Virtual Virginia, or any other virtual platform.
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On January 11, 2024, Suffolk Public Schools School Board approved the proposal to eliminate the SPS Online Program, with the inclusion of certain provisions.
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Will my child still be affiliated with Suffolk Public Schools if I pay for them to be fully virtual with Virtual Virginia?
As long as registration is completed by Suffolk Public Schools Auxiliary Programs Department as outlined in the steps above, your child will continue to be affiliated with their base school and enjoy the option of participating in clubs, organizations and athletics that meet after regular school hours. Students may not attend or visit the base school during the school day.
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How will my child receive counseling services from a professional school counselor?
The Auxiliary Programs Department includes a professional school counselor to guide your student in course selection as well as provide other services typical of counselors in a face-to-face setting.
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If my child is fully virtual in their instructional setting, are they excused from standardized testing?
No. Students in the fully virtual setting should complete all standardized tests required for their grade level and content. Testing is completed at the home school. Parents must provide transportation to and from testing sessions.
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What if we decide later that we want our child to return to face to face learning?
Parents may decide to withdraw their child from the virtual setting by submitting a request in writing. Auxiliary Programs staff will complete the notifications and schedule adjustments that may be needed after meeting with the student and parent/guardian to review the process and explain the impacts of the transfer back to the face to face environment. Students should continue to complete their virtual work until notified that arrangements for their return to the base school have been completed. However, fees paid for the first semester are non-refundable after June 20, 2024 and fees paid for the second semester are non-refundable after December 5, 2024. Parents/Guardians of students admitted under the special circumstances provision, military transfer, or who receive a reduced rate for enrollment, will also be required to reimburse Suffolk Public Schools for any non-refundable payments made for the child’s enrollment.
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What if we do not have the internet at home?
A strong and reliable internet connection is required for students to participate.
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My child prefers to use their own device. How do they connect to Virtual Virginia?
Students are required to utilize a device issued to them by Suffolk Public Schools in order to participate in the virtual setting.
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How do I learn more about the Virtual Virginia Program?
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For elementary students, click here
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For middle and high school students, click here.
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For the Virtual Virginia Handbook, click here.
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Contact your SPS Auxiliary Programs team at 757-925-6752 or email:
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douglaswagoner@spsk12.net - Coordinator of Auxiliary Programs
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daleasneed@spsk12.net - Auxiliary Programs School Counselor
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summernewman@spsk12.net- Administrative Assistant
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