FAQs
Missouri Online School FAQs
What is Missouri Virtual Academy (MOVA)?
MOVA is a statewide virtual school program of the Grandview R-2 School District authorized by the Missouri Course Access and Virtual School Program (MOCAP) law. MOVA is a public school option for eligible students throughout Missouri. The program uses qualified teachers, curriculum, and innovative technology to enhance the learning experience. MOVA also offers support like a brick-and-mortar public school, such as tutoring, guidance counselors, and college and career readiness.
What grades does MOVA offer?
MOVA offers full-time enrollment for grades K–12.
What does it cost to attend MOVA?
Because MOVA is a public school program, there is no tuition. We provide Missouri-certified teachers and instructional materials. Qualified families may receive a loaner computer and printer. These computer systems are instructional property and must be returned when the student leaves MOVA. Families are responsible for providing some common household materials (such as printer ink and paper). Our enrollment consultants can help address your technological and computer questions and needs.
Is MOVA homeschooling or a supplemental course program?
No, MOVA is a full-time virtual school program and does not enroll students part-time or for individual courses. Students remain in their resident district but receive instruction from MOVA's teachers in a virtual setting. Students comply with all public school requirements, such as state testing and attendance, and follow the graduation requirements of their local district or charter school.
What subjects will my child study?
Language arts, math, science, and history are the core courses. There are also courses in the appropriate grade levels, such as music, art, physical education, health, and Missouri history. Career readiness exploratory courses are offered in middle school, and high school students can take career-focused electives through Stride Career Prep. Visit our elementary, middle school, and high school curriculum pages for more details.
Does MOVA provide textbooks and other instructional materials?
Yes. We provide textbooks and instructional materials, which are dependent on the student's grade level and the courses they're enrolled in. High school students receive fewer books and materials than elementary and middle school students.
How much time do students spend on the computer?
We expect that students will spend no more than 15 to 30 percent of their school time on the computer in grades K–5, 50 to 70 percent in grades 6–8, and 80+ percent in grades 9–12. We believe in a balanced approach toward education. Computers help us provide you with effective assessment, planning, and time-management tools. Computers also act as powerful teaching tools that can motivate, stimulate, and inform children about the world around them. They do not, however, replace a solid education. Rather, they help facilitate one. That's why we use a unique multimedia approach that also includes traditional books, workbooks, and instructional materials.
Can my child work at his or her own pace?
The elementary program is self-paced and flexible within the parameters specified by state law and student needs, based on benchmark assessments taken at the beginning of the school year. Middle school and high school students complete lessons in synchronous and asynchronous sessions and are expected to complete, quizzes, tests, and other assignments in a timely manner.
How does MOVA help with college and career readiness?
MOVA offers Stride Career Prep, which combines traditional high school academics with industry-relevant, career-focused courses to help students gain real world skills. Students also have access to a web-based platform that connects students with employers and colleges across the country.
Does MOVA provide credit recovery?
Yes, MOVA enrolls students who may need to catch up. MOVA provides supports to help students reach their full potential and make progress year over year.
Do you provide curriculum for students with special needs?
MOVA provides accommodations, modifications, and assistive technology supports for students with disabilities according to current Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans developed by a student's resident school district. To discuss your child's needs, please contact our special programs manager.
Can you accommodate the accelerated learning needs of my gifted/talented child?
The beauty of our program is that it is flexible enough to meet children where they are in any given subject and take them where they want to go. Grade placement assessments, completed as part of the enrollment process, allow us to place your student in the appropriate level of curriculum. So, for example, if your fourth grader is doing math on a sixth-grade level and reading on a fourth-grade level, we can tailor lesson plans to meet your student's abilities.
What happens if my student completes a course mid-year?
Teachers develop an Individualized Learning Plan for each student based on their academic needs. Teachers work closely with students to help pace the curriculum to meet goals for advancement.
How do students interact socially?
Throughout the year, students will be invited to participate in school outings, field trips (e.g., to historical sites, museums, zoos), picnics, and other social events. Local students and parents can get together on a regular basis in their areas. Students can also take advantage of a wide variety of online clubs.
How does MOVA meet students' social and emotional needs?
Like traditional, brick-and-mortar schools, MOVA provides student supports and counselors to help address students' social and emotional needs, including being a victim of bullying or experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, or difficulties at home. MOVA's educators are also trained in crisis prevention and how to identify and address issues when they come up.
Will this program intrude into my home?
There are no home visits as part of the program and no other intrusions into your home.
What diploma do students receive when they graduate?
All graduating students receive a diploma from their home school district.
