What does ExCEL stand for?
ExCEL is an abbreviation for Expanded Choices for e-Learners.
Convenience of Learning at Home with Daily Instruction
ExCEL Virtual Learning Academy is a learning option designed to meet the dynamic needs of students who are finding success learning online in a non-traditional setting. ExCEL offers both full-time and blended virtual learning options with flexible pacing and on-site supports to help each student achieve ExCELlence in school and after graduation.
What Makes ExCEL unique?
- ExCEL Virtual Learning Academy offers daily, teacher-led classes for first through sixth grade students, and asynchronously classes through CAOLA and Schoology for grades 7-12. Due to lack of community interest, kindergarten is not being offered at this time.
- District approved curriculum to ensure students receive a high-quality public school education.
- Students will be working with highly qualified, PA certified West Shore School District teachers. Not all charter or cyber-charter teachers are certified teachers.
- Option for students in grades 9-12 to take all of their courses virtually or to take a blending of virtual learning courses and traditional face-to-face courses in their home-base high school.
- Option for interested students to enroll in Cumberland Perry Area Career & Technical Center.
- Access to a support network of teachers, counselors, career coordinators, psychologists, literacy specialists, technology specialists, and an administrator ready to provide assistance.
- Access to West Shore School District special education, gifted, and social work services.
- Face-to-face support provided when needed by District staff close to your home.
- Ability to seamlessly return to full-time in person learning at the end of the school year.
- Students will receive a District-issued device and access to online, phone, and in person technology support by District technicians.
- Offered at no cost to families. Local tax dollars remain in the West Shore School District.
Remain Connected to the District and School Programs
- ExCEL students can earn a Cedar Cliff or Red Land High School diploma and participate in the commencement ceremony with in person learners.
- Students can participate in all school events and activities including grade level field trips, college and career readiness activities, Academic Bowl, extracurricular clubs, athletics, musicals, homecoming, prom, etc.
- Access to District resources including libraries, STEAM labs, and the aquaponics lab.
- ExCEL students follow the District’s school calendar.
Family Support
Virtual and in-person learning opportunities for families to assist them in using software (Schoology, Seesaw, etc.), navigating available resources, helping your child with organization and time management, helping to set-up home workspaces, etc.
Eligibility
All students in grades 1-12 who currently reside in the West Shore School District are eligible to attend, including those students who are currently attending an outside cyber, charter, or private school.
English Language Learners and students with IEPs will meet with school staff to assess their needs and ability to thrive in a virtual learning setting.