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ACADEMICS AT VALA NC
ACADEMICS AT VALA NC
Powered by the 5A Learning Framework and STEAM Integration
At VALA NC, academics are intentionally designed to be engaging, rigorous, and accessible for every learner. Our instructional program is built on the 5A Learning Framework and strengthened through STEAM integration. Together, these elements ensure students do not simply complete online lessons, but actively learn, apply knowledge, and grow with purpose.
VALA NC combines live teacher instruction, hands-on learning, personalized support, and real-world applications to create a dynamic virtual learning experience that prepares students for academic success, college, careers, and lifelong learning.
Instructional Model
Instructional Model
VALA NC uses a balanced instructional model that blends structure with flexibility, ensuring students receive consistent guidance while learning in ways that meet their individual needs.
Active Learning through Daily Live Instruction
Students participate in daily synchronous (live) classes led by licensed North Carolina teachers. These interactive sessions include discussion, guided practice, collaboration, and real-time feedback. Live instruction builds strong teacher-student relationships and keeps students engaged, accountable, and connected.
Adaptive Instruction through Asynchronous Learning
Students also engage in asynchronous practice and deep-learning activities that allow them to work at an appropriate pace while applying and extending learning. Teachers review student work regularly and use learning data to personalize instruction, provide feedback, and adjust support as needed.
Small-Group Instruction for Targeted Support
Small-Group Instruction for Targeted Support
Teachers meet with students in small groups to provide reteaching, enrichment, or acceleration. This adaptive approach ensures students who need extra help receive it promptly, while advanced learners are challenged and supported to grow further.
Authentic Learning through Projects and Inquiry
Authentic Learning through Projects and Inquiry
Project-based and inquiry-based learning are core instructional strategies at VALA NC. Students explore real-world problems, conduct research, collaborate with peers, and present their learning. These experiences develop critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration skills essential for success beyond school.
Accountable Learning through Portfolios and Mastery-Based Assessment
Accountable Learning through Portfolios and Mastery-Based Assessment
Students demonstrate learning through digital portfolios and mastery-based assessments that highlight growth, understanding, and skill development over time. This approach emphasizes meaningful learning and accountability rather than seat time or test scores alone.
STEAM Integration Across the Curriculum
STEAM Integration Across the Curriculum
VALA NC emphasizes Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics learning (STEAM) across subjects. By blending analytical thinking with creativity and design, students learn to approach challenges from multiple perspectives. STEAM integration supports innovation, problem-solving, and real-world application, preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
Curriculum Aligned to NC Standards and Enriched through STEAM
Curriculum Aligned to NC Standards and Enriched through STEAM
VALA NC’s curriculum is fully aligned with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study and enriched to deepen understanding, relevance, and engagement across all subject areas.
Science Labs: Students participate in virtual simulations and hands-on lab experiences (including home lab kits when appropriate) that promote inquiry, experimentation, and scientific reasoning.
Engineering and Design Challenges: Students plan, build, test, and refine solutions to real-world problems, developing creativity, persistence, and design thinking skills.
Mathematics Problem Solving: Math instruction emphasizes reasoning, modeling, and real-life applications, helping students understand not just how to solve problems, but why solutions work.
Literature and Writing Connections: Reading, writing, and discussion are integrated across subjects to strengthen communication, comprehension, and critical thinking.
Social Studies Inquiry Projects: Students explore history, civics, economics, and geography through research-based inquiry, analysis of sources, and connections to current events.
Arts and Creativity Integration: Visual arts, design, storytelling, and creative expression are woven throughout learning to deepen engagement and allow students to demonstrate understanding in diverse ways.
Accessible Education for Every Learner
VALA NC is committed to accessible education for all students. Learning is designed with flexibility, multiple ways to engage with content, and strong instructional support. Technology enhances instruction, but teachers remain central—guiding learning, building relationships, and supporting student growth. Through Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and responsive teaching, all students are given equitable opportunities to succeed.
What This Means for Families
What This Means for Families
Through the combined power of the 5A Learning Framework and STEAM integration, VALA NC ensures students:
Actively engage in learning every day
Receive instruction tailored to their strengths and needs
Are held accountable through meaningful, mastery-based assessment
Participate in authentic, real-world learning experiences
Have equitable access to high-quality virtual education
At VALA NC, academics are not passive or one-size-fits-all. Our approach builds confident, capable learners who are prepared to succeed in school, college, careers, and life.
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