Enrollment
Is there a cost?
No. There is no fee to attend PA Distance Learning Charter School. We are a public school funded through state tax dollars.
What are the age requirements?
Students enrolling in Kindergarten must be five years of age on or before the first day of school in their district of residence.
In general, students may not be 21 years of age at the time of enrollment but may be permitted to complete the school semester in which his/her 21st birthday falls. However, students with an IEP may enroll and attend until their 22nd birthday.
This is subject to change based on rules and regulations established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
What are the residency requirements?
The enrolling student’s primary residence must be within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Students cannot be expelled or actively suspended from their local school district.
What documents are required to enroll?
In addition to an online application, the following documents are required before enrollment:
- Proof of child’s age (birth certificate or passport)
- Immunization records (you can obtain a copy from your doctor’s office or request one from your child’s current school – PA Immunization Requirements)
- Proof of internet (internet bill)
- Two proofs of residency in the primary guardian’s name (Valid PA driver’s license or State ID card, internet/cable bill, utility bill (electric, water, gas), lease, mortgage statement, or vehicle registration and insurance card. All documents must reflect the current address and be within the past 60 days. We can NOT accept envelopes.
What grade levels are available at PA Distance?
- Elementary school: K-5
- Middle school: 6-8
- High school: 9-12
What equipment and materials will we need?
Each new student will receive the necessary materials to be successful at home. Items received include:
- laptop computer
- extra monitor
- printer/scanner
- headset
- welcome kit with school supplies
- additional class-specific (art, science, etc) materials as needed
Experience
How is PA Distance different?
Unlike other cyber charter schools in PA, our blended learning model combines teacher-led live learning experiences with asynchronous learning activities. Our teachers are dedicated to ensuring students have what they need to succeed. Teaching matters to us, and so do our students.
As a public, virtual Pennsylvania charter school, we provide a welcoming environment for our students to learn and grow. Our teachers get to know each child, understand their needs, and individualize their learning experience to provide an outlet for success. We bring out the best in each student, and each they bring out the best in us, too.
How long is the school day?
Students spend approximately 5-6 hours daily on school work, about 50% of which is spent in interactive, live learning classes. The balance of time is spent on independent work.
When are classes?
Our school operates from 7:30-3:30, and most live classes start around 8 am. The specific schedule would vary depending on the student’s grade level and enrolled courses.
Are cyber schools regulated like traditional schools?
PA Distance is a public school and is held to the same standards as any public school in the state of Pennsylvania.
Where is PA Distance located?
Our main office is in Southwestern Pennsylvania, but as a virtual charter school, we serve families across the entire Commonwealth of PA.