Notes from a September 2021 meeting with families enrolled at the Regent Christian Online Academy based in Victoria.
Changes That May Impact Regent Christian Online Academy
Thanks so much for meeting with us last night to share your unique perspectives on online learning with RCOA and for partnering with us, in prayer and in action.
Here are the notes from last night. If you have an opportunity to share your personal story, be positive and clearly state how IOL has benefited your family and how possible changes might impact that.
Uniqueness of RCOA
Community and relationships are foundational in online/blended learning.
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At RCOA:
- Learners form personal connections with educators through blended learning opportunities. 90% of those enrolled with RCOA participate in a diverse selection of well-run blended learning programs – classes, clubs, activities, etc., (we run these at 20 different locations) that supplement their home program. Research supports that blended learning is the best model for learning (as opposed to fully campus or fully online learning).
- Elementary learners engage directly with their teachers online through SeeSaw and Highschool learners do so via Canvas. The use of a consistent well-supported platform keeps learners engaged through regular interactions with teachers.
- Elementary Home Learning Support Teachers visit families in their homes or virtually online each term.
- RCOA’s standards of education are of the highest quality, and we participate in yearly inspections that confirm that our standards meet and exceed ministry expectations.
- RCOA has high participation in FSAs 95% in grade 4; 90% in grade 7, and exceptional results. RCOA has reliable course completion rates, and strong results on graduation assessments.
Location of administrative sites should not dictate communities of service:
- RCOA’s office is located in District 61 (only 7% of our learners reside in this district)
- Our Independent School Authority is located in District 36
- The RCOA student population is concentrated in the lower mainland and mid to southern Vancouver Island
- Our largest on-site centres are located in Abbotsford and Langley
- Our teachers are located where our learners are, not where our offices are
Why Support Independent?
- There are 16 Independent online schools with a diverse rich history and experience. Knowledge and expertise gathered over almost two decades have resulted in ground-breaking excellence of service.
- Learners enrol full-time with an online learning school in their local school district or independent school authority (what are the boundaries of an authority?)
Mental Wellbeing:
Being unable to continue learning with schools that are providing excellent service with excellent results, will have significant mental health impacts for learners and families. Learners and families have strong connections to their classmates and teachers within their IOL schools.
Key Phrases:
Personalized Learning
Equity and Accessibility
Affordability
Flexibility – in timelines and pacing
Course and curriculum options are individualized
Learn in a way that best meets their needs
Thanks so much for partnering with us!
Brenda Fawkes
Executive Director of Innovations and Program Development
Regent Christian Online Academy
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