Welcome to
the regional virtual active learning academy (vala)
A tuition-free, STEAM-focused, regional K–12 online public charter school
Serving Wake County and seven surrounding counties (Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston, and Nash)
Estamos recopilando las opiniones de las familias de los ocho condados mientras diseñamos vala. ¡Su voz es importante! Sus ideas y sugerencias pueden ayudar a dar forma a un nuevo modelo de escuela pública virtual, creado junto con las familias de Carolina del Norte y para las familias de Carolina del Norte.
vala A is being designed to serve students and families in eight counties (Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston, Nash, and Wake) in North Carolina who are seeking a high-quality virtual school experience. Our model is especially well-suited for families looking for:
A structured online school environment
Strong teacher support and live instruction
Personalized learning opportunities
Flexible learning from home
Engaging and meaningful student experiences
A future-focused education that prepares students for college, careers, and life
At vala, we believe online learning should be engaging, interactive, and student-centered. Our school model is designed to go beyond passive screen time by combining live instruction, active learning, personalized support, and real-world experiences that help students succeed in school and in life.
Active Learning
Students learn by doing through projects, discussion, inquiry, teamwork, and hands-on activities that keep them engaged and help them understand deeply.
Personalized Support
Teachers use live instruction, adaptive learning tools, and small-group support to meet students where they are and help them grow.
Real-World Learning
Students connect learning to real life through STEAM projects, authentic problem solving, internships, and career-connected experiences.
Accessible & Supportive
As a virtual school, vala is designed to make high-quality learning accessible to students in eight counties in North Carolina in a structured, supportive, and flexible environment.
What a Day at vala Looks Like?
A typical school day at vala balances live teacher-led lessons, small-group support, independent learning, and hands-on projects. Our schedules are designed to keep students focused, supported, and actively involved throughout the day.
Live, interactive instruction with teachers
Small-group support and intervention
Independent and adaptive learning activities
STEAM and project-based learning
Reflection and goal-setting
Enrichment opportunities after school
View Sample Daily Schedules
Brain Sports
Chess, coding, debate, esports, robotics, and academic competitions that strengthen critical thinking, focus, and strategy.
Wellness & Fitness
Movement, mindfulness, physical wellness, and healthy habits that support students’ focus, well-being, and academic success.
Clubs & Enrichment
Interactive clubs and enrichment opportunities in STEM, arts, leadership, service, and other student interests.
Our school is guided by VALA NC’s 5A Learning Framework, which helps ensure that learning is engaging, responsive, meaningful, and accessible.
Active Learning – students participate, create, discuss, and apply
Adaptive Instruction – teaching responds to student needs
Accountable Systems – clear expectations and strong support
Authentic Experiences – learning connects to the real world
Accessible Education – high-quality learning for all students
Families want a school that is academically strong, engaging, safe, and supportive. VALA NC is being designed to provide a high-quality virtual learning experience while giving families the flexibility and partnership they need.
Small online classes
Strong teacher-student relationships
Clear communication with families
Structured daily schedules
Student support services
Opportunities for enrichment and connection
VALA NC is being developed by experienced educators and leaders who are committed to academic excellence, innovation, student support, and responsible school governance. The school is being built with a strong focus on quality, transparency, family partnership, and long-term student success.
Our planning process is guided by a commitment to creating a school that is not only academically strong, but also supportive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of North Carolina families.
