Maine Virtual Academy Approved to Open

AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 13, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Maine Virtual Academy (MEVA), a statewide online public charter school, was approved today by the Maine Charter School Commission. The new online school will open next school year and serve students in grades 7-12 throughout the state.

"Our board is extremely excited to launch this new public school," said Amy Carlisle, chair of the Maine Virtual Academy board of directors and resident of Falmouth, ME. "We worked tirelessly to ensure the charter's goals and objectives were met and that all issues raised were fully addressed. We thank the Maine Charter School Commission for their vote of confidence and we look forward to working closely with them to make our school a success for students across Maine."

Following an extensive review, the Maine Virtual Academy received a recommendation from the Commission staff and review team to approve the charter. The Commission review team issued a findings of fact report concluding that Maine Virtual Academy will create a high-quality school with high standards; increase high quality educational opportunities; provide alternative learning environments for students not thriving in traditional schools; create new professional opportunities for teachers; and encourage the use of different, high quality models of teaching.

"Maine Virtual Academy's mission is to empower students to acquire the academic and life skills needed to succeed in post-secondary education and career opportunities," said educator and Maine Virtual Academy board member Beth Lorigan, who resides in Brewer, ME. "Online schools are an important education option, although they are not for every student. They require a high level of student engagement and persistence to succeed. For students willing to work hard, they will find our school to be a place where a team of committed educators are ready to help them achieve their goals."

Maine Virtual Academy will provide students access to multiple core and elective courses, assessments, and instruction from Maine-certified teachers. Individualized learning plans with specific learning goals will be developed to meet the needs of every student. Teachers will regularly interact with students, providing direct instruction, assessment, intervention, guidance, and support. As a public school, Maine Virtual Academy will follow all state requirements and accountability standards.

Maine Virtual Academy is governed by an independent, nonprofit board of directors comprised of parents, educators, and business and community leaders from Maine. The board will oversee all operations of the school and set school policy. The school will use the curriculum, technology and academic programs from K12 Inc., a leading education provider to online and blended schools.  K12, a company of educators, serves thousands of schools, districts, and educational institutions across the country.

SOURCE Maine Virtual Academy