Columbia Virtual Academy (CVA) operates under Washington State Law governing Alternative Learning
Experience (ALE) programs. ALE is primarily distinguished by off-campus instruction. The intent of this
type of program is to give schools flexibility to serve a diverse student population.
The specific requirements and expectations of these off-campus learning activities are detailed in a
Written Student Learning Plan (WSLP) developed and supervised by a public school teacher.
There are four state requirements for all ALE students. Here are what those requirements mean for a
CVA education:
Written Student Learning Plan (WSLP)
The WSLP is your map to success for your student’s education, developed for your student by your CVA
Academic Advisor. The WSLP includes the learning goals, objectives, learning activities and timelines
for each online or book and paper course you choose. The WSLP can be modified throughout the school year by
your CVA teacher as needed/required to meet specific academic needs.
Weekly Contact
Required each week, Weekly Contact is documented, direct communication between your student and your CVA
teacher. Direct personal contact between the student and teacher can be accomplished in person, or through
the use of telephone, e-mail, video chat or regular submission of student work with teacher feedback.
Regardless of the option you choose, regular access to high speed internet is essential to participation
with CVA.
Weekly contact also serves as attendance for the week. CVA is a public school program subject to the same
attendance requirements as other public schools in the State of Washington.
Monthly Reviews
Each month, CVA teachers conduct Monthly Reviews of student progress toward achieving the specific learning
goals and objectives specified in the WSLP. Satisfactory Progress reflects your student’s progress based on
Weekly Contacts, work samples and grade reports provided from specific subject areas. CVA teachers will want
to speak directly with you and your student by telephone or video chat at least one time a month to conference
on your student’s monthly progress.
Annual Assessment
At a minimum, all students taking alternative learning experience courses or course work must be assessed
annually. For full-time students, the state assessment is required for grades 3 - 8 and 10 - 12, along with
any other annual assessments required by the CVA school district for all grades. Part-time students must also
be assessed at least annually. All assessments are administered at no cost to families and your CVA teacher
will review the results with you in support of your student’s ongoing learning.
We prepare students for their future with personalized learning for every student.
