Alabama Virtual Academy offers free online schooling

HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - Online learning is a way for families to have another option in education. Alabama Virtual Academy is free public schooling for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

More than 2,000 kids are enrolled this year in Alabama.

"I think I'm learning more!" said Logan Perez, a sixth-grader.

His sister, Brooklyn Perez, is a second-grader in Alabama Virtual Academy, and they both say it has changed their lives.

"No one is there to pick on you or take your stuff unless it's your little sister, but no one takes your stuff," Logan explained.

Logan was fed up with bullies in school and Brooklyn has severe anxiety with large groups so their mother looked into online learning.

"There's no more bullying. There is no more crying over school. They get up ready for school, and they can't wait to get started," said Logan and Brooklyn's mom, Jennifer Perez.

"I'm learning how to count," said Brooklyn.

Each grade level is provided with own hands-on resources that complement the interactive online program.

"If you double click it you can send stuff to the teacher where only the teacher will be able to see it," Logan added.

"I think when you combine the technology, the certified teachers, the parent involvement and that comfortable learning environment, you get something attractive to students around the state," said ALVA's head of school, Kayleen Mable.

During Class Connects, the live streams, the teachers can see who is paying attention, asking questions and keeping up with what's being taught.

"If they are behind the teachers will help them one on one where in a brick and mortar teachers don't have time for one on ones they have 20 to 30 students all day long with him," said Jennifer Perez.

Students can go on monthly outings to meet their teachers and other kids in the Academy. There are also clubs to join, and they can sign up for dual enrollment to get ahead in college courses.

"Students can do a duck tape club or a Spanish club with students across the United States so that is something is really fun for them to have that extension of their learning," said Mable.

"If they get frustrated aggravated or stressed out over an area, we take a break and go outside," Jennifer Perez said about physical education. She's seeing major improvements in their learning and their happiness.

"He was behind in reading is now caught up with his reading level. He was struggling with math and now that is favorite thing is math," she said. "I am very proud of my children."

This program has worked well for students who want to excel faster, those who have to make frequent doctor visits, and even athletes who have a busier schedule.

If you would like to enroll your child click here.

The school system also provides all of the textbooks and supplies. Those who qualify can also receive a laptop and printer.

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