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Virtual Academy

Program Guidelines

In West Fargo Public Schools (WFPS), we believe that learning has a social component, and that learners need to be engaged in safe and nurturing environments that allow them to develop their intellectual, physical, social, and emotional well-being.

To increase learner success, the West Fargo Public Schools Virtual Program has made some changes effective for the 2026-2027 school year. Learners in grades 6-12 will be required to attend two days per week in person at Lodoen Community Center. Everyone in the program is required to meet all district and state requirements, including but not limited to state testing and surveys (ex. Panorama, Engagement Survey, etc.) the same as our regular education learners in the buildings.

Virtual Learning Policy

Expectations for All Learners Enrolled in the Virtual Academy

  • We strongly recommend families meet with their child’s assigned counselor prior to beginning the application process for enrolling in virtual learning.
    • Virtual learning is NOT an answer to planning for vacations, out-of-state athletic opportunities, etc.
  • Families interested in virtual learning are required to attend an in-person orientation at the Lodoen Community Center (311 1st Avenue East). You will enter the building through Door #23, after parking in the north lot.
    • Orientation Dates: August 5th & 12th, October 21st & 28th, January 6th & 13th, March 10th & 17th. All orientation sessions begin at 10AM. 
  • If progress is not being met or there are issues involving academics, attendance, or behavior, the Dean of Alternative Programs will recommend to your learner’s administrators that they return onsite at the beginning of the next trimester/semester.
  • The family is responsible for ensuring their child has access to reliable internet service to engage in their classwork.
  • Assessments are to be done on site. More information will be shared at orientation concerning specific expectations, including various learner supports to improve learner success.

Virtual Program Onsite Testing Schedule

  • Monday through Friday
    8:00 to 9:00 a.m.
    3:00 to 3:30 p.m.

  • All Day Fridays from 8:00 to 3:30

Park at the Lodoen Community Center north parking lot and enter through Door #25. High school leaners need their photo ID.

Additional Information for High School Learners Enrolled in the Virtual Academy

Once a learner has been enrolled into the Virtual Academy, they are no longer affiliated with the school they are exiting from. It will be as if they have enrolled in an entirely different school. Therefore, learners in the Virtual Academy will not be permitted to participate in the following activities of their previous school:

  • Commencement Ceremony
  • School Dances (Homecoming, Prom, etc.) – Unless invited by a learner who meets the eligibility criteria defined in the Student Handbook.

Extra- & Co-Curricular Activities Participation

Learners enrolled in the Virtual Academy must maintain adequate progress toward graduation to participate in extra/co-curricular activities. Adequate progress will be determined by attendance (time logged into course), percent completion of course, and overall grade.​​​​​​

Current Progress of Virtual Academy Learners

  • West Fargo Public Schools’ learner academic data shows that learners who are enrolled in virtual learning underperform learners who attend classes onsite. This can be attributed to onsite learners having a defined daily structure, additional educational supports, and easier access to extra/co-curricular activities.
  • Learners engaged in virtual learning in high school, who underperform, are at a greater risk of falling behind and being off-track for making progress toward graduation.

Traits for a Successful Virtual Learning Experience

  • Strong Time Management Skills: Virtual learners need to juggle multiple tasks, assignments, and deadlines in an online setting.
  • Self-Motivation and Discipline: Successful virtual learners are self-motivated and disciplined in managing their time effectively.
  • Excellent Communication Skills: Since virtual learning often involves interacting with instructors and peers through written communication, successful virtual learners possess strong written communication skills.
  • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Virtual learners encounter various challenges, such as understanding complex concepts independently, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with peers in virtual group projects.

Home Education

Please be advised that home education and virtual education are distinct programs.

WFPS utilizes a variety of digital platforms, including Schoology, Edgenuity, and the North Dakota Center for Distance Education (NDCDE) to provide curriculum to learners who request/require a virtual learning option. 

Home education involves a personalized educational approach conducted within the child's home under the supervision of their parents or guardians. Participation in this program meets the legal requirements for compulsory instruction as mandated by state law. For further details on home learning opportunities, please visit our Home Education webpage.