GFPS Virtual Academy 2020
During the summer of 2020 (June 8-July 31), GFPS will again offer a number of courses, open to students entering 8th through 12th grades. Each 1/2 credit costs $115. All registrations will be done online. Payment may be made with credit/debit card payment taken at MySchoolBucks OR credit/debit card, cash or checks made out to GFPS in person at the GFHS or CMR Finance Office OR checks made out to GFPS mailed directly to GFPS Virtual Academy.
For additional Information and to register, click here. (Registration will open on March 2, 2020 at 8 AM)
Ways to pay
SAVE THE DATE – ORIENTATION SESSIONS
The mandatory orientation sessions, each starting in the CMR auditorium, will familiarize students with the computer-based course format. They will also meet with their course-specific instructors for vital information and practice working in the online environment and within their specific virtual classrooms. Students must plan to attend ONE of the two sessions:
Tuesday, June 2 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. OR Thursday, June 4 from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
For additional Information and to register, click here. (Registration will open on March 2, 2020 at 8 AM)
Ways to pay
SAVE THE DATE – ORIENTATION SESSIONS
The mandatory orientation sessions, each starting in the CMR auditorium, will familiarize students with the computer-based course format. They will also meet with their course-specific instructors for vital information and practice working in the online environment and within their specific virtual classrooms. Students must plan to attend ONE of the two sessions:
Tuesday, June 2 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. OR Thursday, June 4 from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions about taking an online course.
Course Titles
|
English Department
English 7 (senior - 1/2 credit) English 8 (senior - 1/2 credit) English 5-6 (junior - 1 credit) Business Department Financial Tech Skills(1/2 credit) |
Social Studies Department
Essentials of World History 1-2 (9th - 1 credit) Montana Studies (10th-1/2 credit) US History 1-2 (11th - 1 credit) Government (12th - 1/2 credit) Art Department Art Workshop (1/2 credit) |
Health Enhancement Department Health & PE 1-2 (1 credit - freshman) Health & PE 3-4 (1 credit - sophomore) Medical Sciences Department Dual Credit Medical Terminology(1/2 credit) Introduction to Health Occupations (1 credit) |
Course Descriptions
All courses with sufficient enrollment on May 22 will run; students who register for a course that does not have sufficient enrollment at that time may choose another course OR receive a full refund.
Full course descriptions can be found in the course catalogs at each high school. Links to both are found at the counseling center links at the bottom of this page.
Art Department Course
Art Workshop ($115 + $25 supplies fee)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This course is open to all students.
Art Workshop will be taught as a hybrid course. While much of the work will be done at home, the teacher will meet with students in person a number of times throughout the course to facilitate hands-on experiences. Please contact the teacher prior to registration to answer any questions you may have.
Questions about Art Workshop can be directed to the teacher, Mr. Andrew Nagengast (contact form below).
Business Courses
Financial Tech Skills ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: During the summer, this course is open to all students. Financial Tech Skills is a graduation requirement.
This course unites technology (Windows, Word, Excel, Access, Power Point, Publisher, Internet navigation) with financial management (budgeting, investing, insurance, banking, credit, payroll, W4, taxes, saving, math, loans and interest) in a real world format. Financial Tech Skill equips students with important skills they will need when entering the workforce.
Questions about Financial Tech Skills can be directed to the teacher, Mr. Travis Crawford (contact form below).
Health Enhancement Courses
Health & PE 1-2 ($230) and Health & PE 3-4 ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: Health & PE 1-2 (1 full credit that must be taken together) is typically taken by freshmen; Health & PE 3-4 (1 full credit that must be taken together) is typically taken by sophomores. Both full credits of HPE are graduation requirements.
Any student may take these courses.
Students in Health & PE classes will be required to take the district assessment posttest. The post test will be administered at the same time as their final exam in person (near the end of July). Students also will be required to take a midterm exam in person (near the end of June).
Course Descriptions:
Health 1-2 includes introduction to health, relationships, human body systems, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, nutrition and body image, reproductive health, personal health and noncommunicable diseases.
Health 3-4 emphasizes healthy choices; decision-making skills, managing stress, mental health/problems, resolving conflict/preventing violence, human body systems, human development/reproduction, life cycle and communicable diseases/STDs.
PE 1-2 AND PE 3-4 focus on fitness with basic skills being reinforced. Conditioning will be stressed. Introduction to life-long fitness/games and activities.
Additional information can be obtained from Health/PE Teacher, Mrs. Amanda Ferderer (contact form below).
English Courses
English 5-6 ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This is the two semesters of English typically taken during the junior year. Students entering grade 11 may take these courses. English 5-6 is a graduation requirement.
These courses are designed to allow students to earn a full credit for English 5-6 during the short summer session. The course must still meet all curriculum standards, even though it is abbreviated. Students should be prepared to logon and participate consistently. Students wishing to start on the novels ahead of time should visit with Ms. Wilcox in order to get assignment specifics.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting English 5-6 teacher, Ms. Karen Wilcox (contact form below).
English 7 ($115) & English 8 ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: These courses are the two semesters of English typically taken during the senior year. Students entering grade 12 may take these courses. English 7-8 is a graduation requirement.
These courses are designed to allow students to earn a full credit for English 7-8 during the short summer session. The course must still meet all curriculum standards, even though it is abbreviated. Students should be prepared to logon and participate consistently. Students will complete a senior level research paper; read at least two complete literary works; discuss Native American topics through varied media; participate in threaded discussions, write at least one literary essay, and complete a resume unit. Texts used for this course will include Wit, a play by Margaret Edson; Animal Farm, and Yellow Raft in Blue Water or 1984. Students wishing to start on the novels ahead of time should email the teacher using the form below in order to get assignment specifics.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting English 7 & 8 teacher, Ms. Karen Wilcox (contact form below).
Social Studies Courses
Essentials of World History ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This course is open to any student; it is a graduation requirement that is typically taken during the freshman year.
Students will study a year of world history from Renaissance to modern times, which will include cultural, political, military, and economic factors in the development of world cultures and their impact on modern society. The year is divided into units covering history in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, including some emphasis on geography.
Questions about Essentials of World History can be answered by EWH teacher, Ms. Jolyn Johnson (contact form below).
Montana Studies ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This course is open to any student; it is a graduation requirement that is typically taken during the sophomore year.
This one semester required class will cover the history and growth of Montana and its state government. A specific focus will be given to tribal government and to the unique status of the tribes as provided by the U.S. Constitution, Treaties and Federal Laws.
Questions about Montana Studies can be answered by Montana Studies teacher, Mr. Brian Greenwell (contact form below).
U.S. History 1-2 ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: U.S. History is a two-semester course, typically taken during the junior year. Students may choose to take either both semesters or just one semester during Summer Virtual Academy. This course is open to students entering grades 10-12. U.S. History 1-2 is a graduation requirement.
US History Online students are expected to possess strong reading skills, self-discipline, the ability to work mostly independently on tasks with occasional guidance, and a willingness to write. In addition to assignments and reading guides students will complete online, there will be time-limited exams for each unit (Each semester has six (6) units of study), and a final, proctored exam in person at the conclusion of each semester's work. Students will also complete a research project for each semester which will include a presentation component completed either through submission of a digital video file or in-person.
Additional information may be obtained from the U.S. History teacher, Mr. Alex Rosenleaf (contact form below).
Government ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: Government is a one-semester course, typically taken during the senior year. There is no prerequisite. It is open to students entering grades 11 and 12. Government is a graduation requirement.
Students need to be self-disciplined and have regular access to a computer and the internet and demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of Moodle and how to work within Moodle when they meet with the instructor at the beginning of the course. Students will submit their work, except for the final exam, back to the instructor through Moodle. Students will complete eight (8) units which encompass reading, writing short essays (2 – 3 paragraphs), assessments, and a proctored District Assessment in person as the final at the conclusion of all of the course work.
Additional information may be obtained from the Government teacher, Susan Quinn (contact form below).
Health Sciences Courses
Medical Terminology ($115)
This course is offered for dual credit through Great Falls College – MSU for those students who qualify. This course will focus on the many components of a medical term by learning and recognizing word roots, prefixes, suffixes and abbreviations used in medical languages today. Learn how to combine words to create meaningful medical conditions as well as comprehend their definition and know the correct spelling and pronunciation. In this medical terminology course, we will cover medical terms related to all major body systems. This is an online class which is required prior to entering any senior level health science classes. Information about taking the course for dual credit will be posted when it becomes available. Dual credit means the student pays approximately $150 for the three college credits and earns high school and college credit simultaneously (for students 16 and older). Dual credit paperwork must be filled out and submitted to Mrs. Virts on the night the student attends orientation. Students who do not register for dual credit at orientation may take it for high school credit only.
Additional information may be obtained from the Medical Terminology teacher, Christi Virts (contact form below.)
Introduction to Health Occupations ($230)
This introductory medical science course includes an overview of concepts related to becoming a healthcare worker Topics include history and trends of healthcare and health care fields, careers in healthcare, professionalism, legal and ethical responsibilities, cultural diversity, medical terminology and medical math. This course is a prerequisite for all other health science courses.
Additional information may be obtained from the Intro to Health Occ teacher, Katy Deffe (contact form below.)
Full course descriptions can be found in the course catalogs at each high school. Links to both are found at the counseling center links at the bottom of this page.
Art Department Course
Art Workshop ($115 + $25 supplies fee)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This course is open to all students.
Art Workshop will be taught as a hybrid course. While much of the work will be done at home, the teacher will meet with students in person a number of times throughout the course to facilitate hands-on experiences. Please contact the teacher prior to registration to answer any questions you may have.
Questions about Art Workshop can be directed to the teacher, Mr. Andrew Nagengast (contact form below).
Business Courses
Financial Tech Skills ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: During the summer, this course is open to all students. Financial Tech Skills is a graduation requirement.
This course unites technology (Windows, Word, Excel, Access, Power Point, Publisher, Internet navigation) with financial management (budgeting, investing, insurance, banking, credit, payroll, W4, taxes, saving, math, loans and interest) in a real world format. Financial Tech Skill equips students with important skills they will need when entering the workforce.
Questions about Financial Tech Skills can be directed to the teacher, Mr. Travis Crawford (contact form below).
Health Enhancement Courses
Health & PE 1-2 ($230) and Health & PE 3-4 ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: Health & PE 1-2 (1 full credit that must be taken together) is typically taken by freshmen; Health & PE 3-4 (1 full credit that must be taken together) is typically taken by sophomores. Both full credits of HPE are graduation requirements.
Any student may take these courses.
Students in Health & PE classes will be required to take the district assessment posttest. The post test will be administered at the same time as their final exam in person (near the end of July). Students also will be required to take a midterm exam in person (near the end of June).
Course Descriptions:
Health 1-2 includes introduction to health, relationships, human body systems, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, nutrition and body image, reproductive health, personal health and noncommunicable diseases.
Health 3-4 emphasizes healthy choices; decision-making skills, managing stress, mental health/problems, resolving conflict/preventing violence, human body systems, human development/reproduction, life cycle and communicable diseases/STDs.
PE 1-2 AND PE 3-4 focus on fitness with basic skills being reinforced. Conditioning will be stressed. Introduction to life-long fitness/games and activities.
Additional information can be obtained from Health/PE Teacher, Mrs. Amanda Ferderer (contact form below).
English Courses
English 5-6 ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This is the two semesters of English typically taken during the junior year. Students entering grade 11 may take these courses. English 5-6 is a graduation requirement.
These courses are designed to allow students to earn a full credit for English 5-6 during the short summer session. The course must still meet all curriculum standards, even though it is abbreviated. Students should be prepared to logon and participate consistently. Students wishing to start on the novels ahead of time should visit with Ms. Wilcox in order to get assignment specifics.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting English 5-6 teacher, Ms. Karen Wilcox (contact form below).
English 7 ($115) & English 8 ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: These courses are the two semesters of English typically taken during the senior year. Students entering grade 12 may take these courses. English 7-8 is a graduation requirement.
These courses are designed to allow students to earn a full credit for English 7-8 during the short summer session. The course must still meet all curriculum standards, even though it is abbreviated. Students should be prepared to logon and participate consistently. Students will complete a senior level research paper; read at least two complete literary works; discuss Native American topics through varied media; participate in threaded discussions, write at least one literary essay, and complete a resume unit. Texts used for this course will include Wit, a play by Margaret Edson; Animal Farm, and Yellow Raft in Blue Water or 1984. Students wishing to start on the novels ahead of time should email the teacher using the form below in order to get assignment specifics.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting English 7 & 8 teacher, Ms. Karen Wilcox (contact form below).
Social Studies Courses
Essentials of World History ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This course is open to any student; it is a graduation requirement that is typically taken during the freshman year.
Students will study a year of world history from Renaissance to modern times, which will include cultural, political, military, and economic factors in the development of world cultures and their impact on modern society. The year is divided into units covering history in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, including some emphasis on geography.
Questions about Essentials of World History can be answered by EWH teacher, Ms. Jolyn Johnson (contact form below).
Montana Studies ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: This course is open to any student; it is a graduation requirement that is typically taken during the sophomore year.
This one semester required class will cover the history and growth of Montana and its state government. A specific focus will be given to tribal government and to the unique status of the tribes as provided by the U.S. Constitution, Treaties and Federal Laws.
Questions about Montana Studies can be answered by Montana Studies teacher, Mr. Brian Greenwell (contact form below).
U.S. History 1-2 ($230)
Course Information & Prerequisites: U.S. History is a two-semester course, typically taken during the junior year. Students may choose to take either both semesters or just one semester during Summer Virtual Academy. This course is open to students entering grades 10-12. U.S. History 1-2 is a graduation requirement.
US History Online students are expected to possess strong reading skills, self-discipline, the ability to work mostly independently on tasks with occasional guidance, and a willingness to write. In addition to assignments and reading guides students will complete online, there will be time-limited exams for each unit (Each semester has six (6) units of study), and a final, proctored exam in person at the conclusion of each semester's work. Students will also complete a research project for each semester which will include a presentation component completed either through submission of a digital video file or in-person.
Additional information may be obtained from the U.S. History teacher, Mr. Alex Rosenleaf (contact form below).
Government ($115)
Course Information & Prerequisites: Government is a one-semester course, typically taken during the senior year. There is no prerequisite. It is open to students entering grades 11 and 12. Government is a graduation requirement.
Students need to be self-disciplined and have regular access to a computer and the internet and demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of Moodle and how to work within Moodle when they meet with the instructor at the beginning of the course. Students will submit their work, except for the final exam, back to the instructor through Moodle. Students will complete eight (8) units which encompass reading, writing short essays (2 – 3 paragraphs), assessments, and a proctored District Assessment in person as the final at the conclusion of all of the course work.
Additional information may be obtained from the Government teacher, Susan Quinn (contact form below).
Health Sciences Courses
Medical Terminology ($115)
This course is offered for dual credit through Great Falls College – MSU for those students who qualify. This course will focus on the many components of a medical term by learning and recognizing word roots, prefixes, suffixes and abbreviations used in medical languages today. Learn how to combine words to create meaningful medical conditions as well as comprehend their definition and know the correct spelling and pronunciation. In this medical terminology course, we will cover medical terms related to all major body systems. This is an online class which is required prior to entering any senior level health science classes. Information about taking the course for dual credit will be posted when it becomes available. Dual credit means the student pays approximately $150 for the three college credits and earns high school and college credit simultaneously (for students 16 and older). Dual credit paperwork must be filled out and submitted to Mrs. Virts on the night the student attends orientation. Students who do not register for dual credit at orientation may take it for high school credit only.
Additional information may be obtained from the Medical Terminology teacher, Christi Virts (contact form below.)
Introduction to Health Occupations ($230)
This introductory medical science course includes an overview of concepts related to becoming a healthcare worker Topics include history and trends of healthcare and health care fields, careers in healthcare, professionalism, legal and ethical responsibilities, cultural diversity, medical terminology and medical math. This course is a prerequisite for all other health science courses.
Additional information may be obtained from the Intro to Health Occ teacher, Katy Deffe (contact form below.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Are there orientation sessions?
The mandatory orientation sessions, both starting in the CMR auditorium, will familiarize students with the computer-based course format. They will also meet with their course-specific instructors for vital information and practice working in the online environment and within their specific virtual classrooms. Students must plan to attend ONE of the two sessions:
Tuesday, June 2 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. OR Thursday, June 4 from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Q. Do I need a computer and Internet to take an online course?
Yes, Internet access at home is mandatory. Students also need a “back up plan” should Internet access or computer accessibility at home become compromised. The high schools have computer access during summer school hours. Not having access for any time during the summer does not change expectations or assignment deadlines. It is NOT realistic to expect to participate in online courses entirely on a smart phone or tablet.
Q. Who is eligible to take these courses?
Any student entering grades 8-12 for the upcoming year who needs a credit in one of the offerings. The courses are available for students wishing to get a head-start on taking courses. Using Virtual Academy as credit recovery has been done with limited success. Please talk to your counselor about whether that is a good option for you.
Q. What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Cancelling by midnight on June 8, 2020 will result in a full refund with no grade penalty.
Cancellations from June 9, 2020 through June 12, 2020 will result in a half-refund and no grade penalty.
Dropping any course after June 12, 2020 will result in an F on the student's transcript and fees will not be refunded.
All cancellations must be done in writing by email: susan_quinn@gfps.k12.mt.us.
Q. Why should I consider an online course rather than one that meets face to face?
Online learning is a flexible option for students who work during the day or need to spend the summer away from home. It is also another way of earning credit for those who prefer working on their own or wish to free up space in their high school schedule.
Q. How much time each week will I spend doing coursework?
Students can expect to dedicate roughly 8-15 hours per week on each semester-long course (the semester which is typically 90 days is condensed into 8 weeks.) In general, students should log into their courses every day, just like attending face-to-face classes. Time spent online will depend on reading fluency and how quickly students can complete assignments. There is no specific time requirement each day as long as a student is making progress toward course completion.
Q. What if I need help with the course?
Our instructors are experienced in working with students in an online environment and are more than willing to help those who need it with course material. The orientation session will explain all of the options to the students.
The mandatory orientation sessions, both starting in the CMR auditorium, will familiarize students with the computer-based course format. They will also meet with their course-specific instructors for vital information and practice working in the online environment and within their specific virtual classrooms. Students must plan to attend ONE of the two sessions:
Tuesday, June 2 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. OR Thursday, June 4 from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Q. Do I need a computer and Internet to take an online course?
Yes, Internet access at home is mandatory. Students also need a “back up plan” should Internet access or computer accessibility at home become compromised. The high schools have computer access during summer school hours. Not having access for any time during the summer does not change expectations or assignment deadlines. It is NOT realistic to expect to participate in online courses entirely on a smart phone or tablet.
Q. Who is eligible to take these courses?
Any student entering grades 8-12 for the upcoming year who needs a credit in one of the offerings. The courses are available for students wishing to get a head-start on taking courses. Using Virtual Academy as credit recovery has been done with limited success. Please talk to your counselor about whether that is a good option for you.
Q. What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Cancelling by midnight on June 8, 2020 will result in a full refund with no grade penalty.
Cancellations from June 9, 2020 through June 12, 2020 will result in a half-refund and no grade penalty.
Dropping any course after June 12, 2020 will result in an F on the student's transcript and fees will not be refunded.
All cancellations must be done in writing by email: susan_quinn@gfps.k12.mt.us.
Q. Why should I consider an online course rather than one that meets face to face?
Online learning is a flexible option for students who work during the day or need to spend the summer away from home. It is also another way of earning credit for those who prefer working on their own or wish to free up space in their high school schedule.
Q. How much time each week will I spend doing coursework?
Students can expect to dedicate roughly 8-15 hours per week on each semester-long course (the semester which is typically 90 days is condensed into 8 weeks.) In general, students should log into their courses every day, just like attending face-to-face classes. Time spent online will depend on reading fluency and how quickly students can complete assignments. There is no specific time requirement each day as long as a student is making progress toward course completion.
Q. What if I need help with the course?
Our instructors are experienced in working with students in an online environment and are more than willing to help those who need it with course material. The orientation session will explain all of the options to the students.
Q. What are my options for payment?
ONLINE
Visit https://www.myschoolbucks.com and create a free account. Sign in. Choose "School Store" in the upper right. Click on "Browse All Items." On this site, you have the option of paying with a check (entering your routing number and account information) or with a credit or debit card. NOTE: myschoolbucks.com assesses a fee (Approximately $5 per 1/2 credit.) Please do not pay online until you have registered for a course HERE.
AT A SCHOOL
The Finance Offices at GFH and CMR will take payments until noon on the last day of school, June 5, 2020. After noon on June 5, please choose either other option. If you choose to pay at a finance office, AFTER you have registered HERE, you need to print THIS form and take it to the finance office to pay. The finance office will issue you a receipt, write payment information on the form, and will get the form to Virtual Academy.
BY MAIL OR IN PERSON
AFTER you have registered HERE, you need to print THIS form and mail or deliver a check made out to GFPS to:
GFPS Virtual Academy
1100 4th Street South
Great Falls, MT 59405
ONLINE
Visit https://www.myschoolbucks.com and create a free account. Sign in. Choose "School Store" in the upper right. Click on "Browse All Items." On this site, you have the option of paying with a check (entering your routing number and account information) or with a credit or debit card. NOTE: myschoolbucks.com assesses a fee (Approximately $5 per 1/2 credit.) Please do not pay online until you have registered for a course HERE.
AT A SCHOOL
The Finance Offices at GFH and CMR will take payments until noon on the last day of school, June 5, 2020. After noon on June 5, please choose either other option. If you choose to pay at a finance office, AFTER you have registered HERE, you need to print THIS form and take it to the finance office to pay. The finance office will issue you a receipt, write payment information on the form, and will get the form to Virtual Academy.
BY MAIL OR IN PERSON
AFTER you have registered HERE, you need to print THIS form and mail or deliver a check made out to GFPS to:
GFPS Virtual Academy
1100 4th Street South
Great Falls, MT 59405