ExCEL Virtual Learning Academy is powered by CAOLA, the Capital Area Online Learning Association, providing full and part-time online learning for your child.  CAOLA is a collaborative effort between the Capital Area Intermediate Unit and member school districts to provide flexible online learning options for our students. CAOLA’s web-based courses meet the increasing demand for high quality student instruction that incorporates proven online learning practices and next generation software.

• Your student will remain enrolled in the West Shore School District and can earn their Cedar Cliff or Red Land High School diploma from home.
• Your student will still be connected to their home building for musicals, clubs and extracurricular events.
• Your student can participate in all sports, clubs, and events offered by the West Shore School District including commencement.
• Our free program offers: full-time online curriculum, single course options, credit recovery, summer school, as well as advanced placement options.
• We provide free access to a laptop, maintenance, and technical support!
• Your student will enjoy increased schedule flexibility over other cyber school programs.
• Students receive special education supports from our in-house Learning Support Teachers.
• Our advisors are here to help you navigate the system, get students needed supplies and keep you connected to your home building. There are optional office hours/weekly meetings available for interested students.

• Your student is able to attend specials (art, music, library, gym, etc.) at their home building.  Parents must provide transportation to and from school.
• Live support from our full time course monitor to help answer questions.
• Students can attend all PTO sponsored events held at their home school.

• Live support from our full time course monitor to help answer questions.
• Students can attend all PTO sponsored events held at their home school.

• Students are able to select from a large catalog of courses.
• Students can attend full time online or choose a blended schedule where they attend some classes in person and some classes online.
• Students have the opportunity to take accelerated classes and get ahead on credits.

Need Help?  We're Here! 

• Our program is tailored to meet the needs of individual students providing content presented by Pennsylvania state certified educators.
• Our online lessons utilize the latest forms of video–based instruction, educational multimedia, webquests, interactive reading exercises, online teacher support, custom textbooks and more.
• In addition to receiving live homework help from your child’s ExCEL teachers, our very own West Shore Online Learning Advisor is here to support your student.
• Our Online Learning Advisor is there to support students’ pacing, providing encouragement to students who work ahead, and support for students who need help staying on track. 

Students find success when... 

• they enjoy taking control of their learning.
• they ask questions and actively engage with their teachers 
• they talk with their parents/guardians about their progress, grades, and review minutes as well as course and instructor information.  
• they stay connected to the district and participate in district-sponsored events, clubs, sports, and events.

When is the best time for my student to join?

Students do best when they join ExCEL during key transition points in a school year. The best time to begin ExCEL is at the very beginning of a school year. 

Are you currently registered with the West Shore School District? 

Yes - Great!  
Please click here to complete the ExCEL Inquiry Form.
We’ll use the information you provide to get you to the right ExCEL team member.

No - No problem.  
Please click here to register your child with the District.